Auction Name: 2025 November 6 Ethnographic Art American Indian, Pre-Columbian and Tribal Art Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 70258

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/8240*70258

A Pair of Tumaco-La Tolita Gold Ornaments with Modern Additions
Ecuador/Colombia, c. 300 BC - 500 AD / and 1960s -1990s

Fashioned from hammered sheet gold, each ring is embellished along the rim with a whimsical abstract snail, executed in finely twisted gold threads. The spiraling shells unfurl into delicate heads with longer upper and shorter lower tentacles, an inventive flourish that enlivens the ancient form.

The snails, the work of a skilled modern goldsmith (circa 1970-1990s), enhance rather than distract-adding a touch of wit, charm, and sculptural play to the simple rings. Each is in excellent condition, the surfaces glowing with a warm golden patina, and both are equipped with modern fittings with twisted gold thread for wear as earrings.

This delightful pair carries the spirit of early Formative coastal goldwork, but with a modern twist-literally. The later snails in twisted gold threads add a whimsical flourish, giving the ancient forms a playful wink across the centuries. Historically resonant yet stylish, they're ornaments that blend antiquity with a dash of modern artistry-perfect for the collector who enjoys a little modern fashion with their ancient gold.

Provenance:
A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1994
Merrin Gallery, New York, NY

Lengths: 3 ½ inches each

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