Pre-Columbian Chavín culture copper alloy plaque

Minerva Gallery

Pre-Columbian Chavín culture copper alloy plaque, Peru, ca. 900–200 BCE.

This rare ceremonial plaque is hammered from a copper-based alloy and decorated in repoussé with classic Chavín iconography, featuring stylized anthropomorphic and zoomorphic imagery characteristic of the Chavín religious tradition. 

The plaque retains its original suspended metal danglers, still attached through ancient perforations along the lower edge—an exceptional survival detail that strongly supports authenticity and ritual use. Additional perforations along the top suggest it was originally worn or mounted, possibly as a chest ornament or ceremonial regalia element.

The surface displays a rich, undisturbed archaeological patina with natural copper oxidation ranging from deep greens to earthen browns. Areas of loss and corrosion are consistent with age and burial conditions and should be viewed as historical, not defects. 3" x 2 1/2"

Ex. A. Gharagozloo Collection, CO., Acquired from Axel Traugott, FL., from the estate of Leroy Irons, TX. 1970's.

$900.00

Artwork details