LAMBAYEQUE, Peru, AD 1100 - 1400 - Lot 121

LAMBAYEQUE, Peru, AD 1100 - 1400 Vase depicting a standing figure wearing a poncho, turban and ear ornaments (tambas), holding a spondylus shell. Polychrome terracotta. Add dimensions Provenance: Collection of Professor Kenneth Graham, acquired at auction 1970-1980 In the Lambayeque culture, the spondylus shell, also called "mullu", was highly valued for its rarity and symbolism. Native to the warm waters of Ecuador, they were imported to Peru and used as currency, material for ornaments and offerings during religious ceremonies. Spondylas were associated with fertility, abundance and marine divinities. The figure shown holding a spondylus shell could symbolize a priest or dignitary taking part in sea-related rites. This iconography reflects the importance of the spondyle in the ritual and economic practices of Lambayeque society. Expert : Serge REYNES