Peruvian Pre-Columbian Style Gilt-Silver Repoussé Bowl
Hollowware (Bowl / Tastevin) · Unknown Peruvian Workshop (Silver export sector). Historically significant for the 20th-century revival of Pre-Columbian metallurgical styles.
Pattern: Chimu or Inca Revival style; featuring mythological iconography and deity motifs inspired by Pre-Columbian artifacts.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl / Tastevin)
Maker
Unknown Peruvian Workshop (Silver export sector). Historically significant for the 20th-century revival of Pre-Columbian metallurgical styles.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Peruvian silver (.950) with high-karat gold wash (Vermeil). Base is silver, surface is gold-plated.
Dimensions
Approximately 4-6 inches in diameter; estimated weight between 80-150 grams depending on gauge.
Description
A striking Peruvian silver-gilt bowl featuring intricate repoussé depictions of ancient deities. The deep yellow gold wash highlights the primitive yet sophisticated line work of the mythological figures, designed to evoke the grandeur of Incan solar worship. Its hemispherical form is typical of 'tastevin' or ceremonial vessels used in South American decorative arts.
Key Features
Central deity mask in the well of the bowl; paneled geometric borders; vibrant gold-over-silver composition; high-relief handwork.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Peruvian silver (.950) with high-karat gold wash (Vermeil). Base is silver, surface is gold-plated.
Finish & Decoration
Heavily hand-chased and repoussé decoration with a matte gold 'vermeil' finish. Iconography includes a central deity head and surrounding geometric panels with feather and bird motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the exterior base with 'PERU', '925', or '950', often accompanied by a small maker's punzon (mark) like 'INDUSTRIA PERUANA'.
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat silver sheet; decoration executed via repoussé (punching from the back) and chasing (finishing from the front).
Functional Features
Small ceremonial or decorative bowl; no mechanical parts; features a rolled or thickened rim for structural support.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; handle-less hemispherical form.
Craftsmanship Details
Authentic hand-wrought evidence visible in the slight asymmetry of the repoussé work; high-quality chasing that shows individual punch marks rather than machine-uniformity.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 'soft' hammering typical of Peruvian workshop pieces; oxidation patterns consistent with silver reacting through a gold-plate layer; style matches known 20th-century Lima silver exports.
Origin & Manufacturing
Peru (likely Lima or Cusco workshops). These pieces were traditionally crafted by skilled metalsmiths using methods passed down through generations.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1940-1970). A period of intense interest in indigenous Peruvian heritage and the tourist-export silver market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1960. The style of gilding and the specific geometric iconography are typical of mid-century Peruvian souvenirs for high-end travelers.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Indigenismo' movement in Latin American art, where indigenous styles were reclaimed and utilized for modern artistic and economic expression.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good condition. Visible oxidation (dark spots) suggests thinning of the gold wash. Some minor rim distortions are visible, which are common in hand-raised soft metals.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD. Value depends heavily on the tested metal purity (925 vs 950) and the thickness of the silver gauge.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive silver dips as they will strip the gold wash. Clean with mild soapy water and a very soft cloth. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Sanborns Mexican Silver (often features Aztec motifs); modern machine-stamped tourist bowls (lighter and lack individual chasing details).
Interesting Facts
Peru is the world's second-largest producer of silver, and its smithing traditions pre-date the Spanish conquest by centuries. These revival pieces were often purchased by diplomats and travelers as 'heirloom' souvenirs.