A Moche Lime Spatula ...

Description

A Moche Lime Spatula
Peru, c. 200 - 900 AD, Early Intermediate Period - Middle Horizon

This artwork presents a bird, perhaps a pelican, with shell inlay eyes, that is inserted on triangular forms with shell inlays. While the true purpose of this object is unknown, it has been long thought that it is a spatula for retrieving lime from small containers, as shown on fine-line painted Moche vessels. Such spatulas are usually hammered and cast copper, it is rare to find one carved from bone and shell as this example. In very good condition, appropriate for age, origin, and materials; some inlay missing; remains of a second figure, now missing, in the other hole at the top.

A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1990
Merrin Gallery, New York, NY

Height: 6 ¼ inches

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