- 11
Sicán Gold Beaker with Shells ca. A.D. 900-1100
Estimate
25,000 - 30,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- gold
- Height: 6 in (15.2 cm)
decorated in repoussé with a frieze of upright spears, flanked by bands of flying avians, and surmounted by deeply repoussé spondylus shells encircling the rim.
Provenance
John Wise
Acquired from the above by the present owner's family in 1971
Acquired from the above by the present owner's family in 1971
Exhibited
The mate to this beaker was exhibited and published in the 1964 New York World’d Fair, World of Ancient Gold; it is very likely this beaker accompanied it in the exhibition.
Condition
Excellent condition overall; great color, consistent repousse work.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The red and purple spiky spondylus bivalve was an important emblem of authority long before the Sicán era. Found at depths of over 25 meters in the warm waters off Ecuador, the shells were an important trade item for the elite, serving as a valued commodity and ritual offering to ensure rain for the crops of the coastal deserts. See Jones (1985:224), for the Sicán gold beaker in the Jan Mitchell Collection, of a figure holding a spondylus shell.