Estimated time period from 1000CE
to 1450CE
Size is
38 mm
and weight is
34.5 g
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Pre-Columbian history with this striking Chimu Silver Bead Necklace, hailing from the flourishing culture of ancient Peru. Dated between the 11th to 15th Century CE, this exquisite piece represents the intricate metalwork and symbolic artistry that the Chimu civilization was renowned for.
The necklace is an assemblage of numerous petite discoid and cylindrical beads made from silver, culminating in a silver tweezer pendant. This pendant, resembling the iconic tumi, exhibits a mastery of metalworking with its relief decorations featuring steppe motifs and glyphs akin to avian figures. Such symbols may have represented specific deities or natural elements, reflecting the deep connection the Chimu people had with their surroundings.
The tweezer pendant, an embodiment of utility and ornamentation, speaks volumes about the Chimu's daily life and innovation. Before the advent of modern razors, such tools were essential for grooming and were often crafted to reflect the status and skill of their owners. This particular piece, with its harmonious combination of form and function, would have been used for the meticulous task of hair removal, a testament to the cultural practices of the time.
Crafted from silver of exceptional purity, ranging from 95.3 to 96.6%, with trace amounts of gold, the necklace's material choice is significant. Silver, a metal revered for its lustrous quality and reflective properties, was often associated with lunar deities, water, and the feminine in Andean cosmology. The presence of gold traces further emphasizes the high status of this object, as gold was considered sacred, embodying the sun's power and divinity.
The source of silver for the Chimu culture was the bountiful mines of the Andes, which were extensively worked to produce objects of both ceremonial and practical value. This close relationship with the land's resources is evident in the quality and craftsmanship of the necklace, underscoring the advanced metallurgical techniques of the Chimu artisans.
As a wearable piece of history, this necklace transcends time, with the ancient beads and pendant threaded upon a modern strand complete with a barrel clasp, marrying the past with present-day appreciation for ancient cultures. Despite minor signs of wear, such as nicks and indentations, the necklace remains in excellent condition, wearable and with a patina that only enhances its authenticity and allure.
This necklace not only serves as a stunning adornment but also as a bridge to the past, offering a tangible connection to the Chimu civilization's artistic achievements and day-to-day experiences. The significance of such a piece in a modern collection cannot be overstated; it is not merely jewelry but a portal to the ancient world.
Provenance plays a vital role in the narrative of this piece. Once part of the esteemed Pepe Schaefer collection in California, it was gifted by Bosta Seminarao, having entered the United States in the mid-20th century or earlier, ensuring its legal and ethical acquisition.
Collectors who value authenticity will be reassured to know that a Certificate of Authenticity accompanies this necklace, guaranteeing its historical and cultural provenance.
In summary, this Chimu Silver Bead Necklace with a Tumi Tweezer Pendant is a collector's prize, embodying the ingenuity and aesthetic sensibilities of a bygone era. It is a remarkable relic that not only enhances a collection but also enriches an understanding of the ancient Chimu culture.
