Mochica (Moche) Silver Ear Ornaments, Peru

The Meekins Collection

A rare and evocative pair of Mochica silver ear ornaments, hand-worked in repoussé with stylized anthropomorphic faces. Each ornament features square recessed eyes, a prominent open mouth, and incised ceremonial detailing across the body, characteristic of elite Moche iconography. The figures are rendered with deliberate asymmetry and expressive abstraction, reflecting the Mochica emphasis on ritual identity rather than portrait realism.

The ornaments retain their original 1/34 diameter, suspension hoops, likely ancient or early replacements, formed from silver wire and showing extensive age and wear. Surfaces exhibit deep, naturally developed patina with areas of oxidation, mineral accretion and burial encrustation consistent with archaeological silver. Traces of reddish and dark tonal variation suggest long interment and authentic age.

Such ear ornaments were worn by high status individuals and often associated with ritual, leadership, or warrior identity within Moche society. Their bold facial imagery aligns with known depictions of supernatural or ceremonial figures found in Mochica metalwork and ceramics.

$9,500.00

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