1109 - Set of two Moche guardian copper figures, Lambayeque Valley, northern coast of Peru, c. 200–500 AD.

Set of two Moche guardian copper figures, Lambayeque Valley, northern coast of Peru, c. 200–500 AD. Worked, hammered, and modeled copper. Measurements: approximately 16 × 14 × 1 cm each figure. Set of two Moche figures depicted standing in profile, composed of several individual plaques corresponding to a mask, torso, arms, and legs, assembled to form guardian figures of a funerary nature. One of the figures wears a necklace with pendants, and the other a necklace decorated with owl motifs. The arms, legs, and pectoral plaques are rendered with angular and stylized forms. According to the documentation provided, these types of elements were attached by means of small peripheral holes to cane and leather sarcophagi or funerary bundles belonging to elite individuals of Moche society. State of conservation: surface wear consistent with age and slight patina loss; no restorations or reworkings indicated in the documentation. Provenance: private collection in Los Angeles County, California, acquired before 1960. Pedro Cassinelli Collection, Spain, acquired circa 1980 and passed down through descendants until approximately 2010; Mr. Haine, Redondo Beach, California, c. 2010–2017; US art market, acquired circa 2017. Comparative reference: José Antonio de la Valle, Copper from Ancient Peru, Apu Collection, no. 37, Lima, 1998. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipment: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.