Pair of Pre-Columbian Sican gold llamas

This pair of intricately crafted gold figurines originates from the Sican culture, which flourished in the Lambayeque region of northern Peru between 750 and 1375 CE. These remarkable pieces exemplify the Sican’s exceptional skill in metallurgy, a hallmark of their artistic and ceremonial practices.

Each figurine depicts a stylized llama, an animal integral to Andean life for transportation, textiles, and agriculture, as well as a powerful symbol of wealth and prosperity in Sican cosmology. The llamas stand in a poised position, with slightly exaggerated features such as elongated ears, wide eyes, and defined snouts, lending a sense of liveliness and cultural symbolism.

Delicate incised patterns adorn their bodies, showcasing geometric and possibly symbolic designs that may have held ritualistic or social significance. These motifs, etched with remarkable precision, reflect the Sican artisans’ deep understanding of aesthetic balance and their ability to convey meaning through art.

The gold medium, considered sacred in Sican culture, was associated with the sun and divine power, reinforcing these figurines’ ceremonial importance. It is likely these llamas were created as offerings to deities, grave goods for the elite, or symbols of status used during religious or state rituals. Their small size suggests they were portable objects, perhaps carried in processions or as personal talismans of power.

Made from 12 karat gold, and weighing 105 grams. The figurines exhibit a soft patina and subtle wear consistent with their age.  3/4" in length x 1 1/4" in height.