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Important Prehistoric Trade Cache, A.D. 1100–1450 — From the Williams Ranch Collec
Currency:USD
Category:Art
Start Price:1,000.00 USD
Estimated At:8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
CURRENT BID
0.00USD+ applicable fees & taxes.
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Live Online Auction Starts In
2025 Dec 05 @ 11:00 (UTC-07:00 : PDT/MST)
An exceptional and intact prehistoric trade cache representing the artistry and exchange networks of the Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) world, dating from approximately A.D. 1100–1450.
The grouping includes a large, well-worn bowl complete with its original fitted stone cover, showing interior erosion from centuries of dripping water. Subtle traces of red and black painted decoration remain visible along the rim.
10"D, 6 1/2"H
Within the bowl rests a finely formed and beautifully painted ladle, fully intact and clearly produced by a skilled artisan of high standing.
Also contained within the bowl are Olivella shell beads from the Pacific Coast, demonstrating far-reaching trade connections across the prehistoric Southwest. Accompanying these are a pump-drilled turquoise pendant with natural mineral veining, a pump-drilled local stone pendant, and two complete necklaces composed of pump-drilled shell and stone beads. Together, the items form a remarkable time capsule of ancient artistry, ceremony, and interregional exchange.
Provenance: Major & Nan Spessard Collection
From the historic Williams Ranch near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, an area notable for its geological and cultural importance within the ancient Capitan Reef and Forebasin formations. The ranch was acquired in 1917 by James Adolphous “Dolph” Williams and remained in his family’s possession until its transfer to the National Park Service in 1966.
This grouping was reportedly retained in the Williams family’s private collection and later obtained by noted collector and dealer Gene Lang of Denver, Colorado. The present consignor acquired the cache from Lang in 1992. A signed and notarized affidavit of provenance accompanies the lot, affirming the chain of custody from Williams to Lang to the consignor, with original ownership predating the 1951 Peabody Museum (Salem, Massachusetts) excavation.
Condition: Excellent condition considering age. The bowl displays natural surface wear, mineral accretions, and mild pigment fading consistent with long-term burial and exposure. The ladle is intact with visible decorative remnants. The turquoise and stone pendants show minor edge wear typical of ancient adornments. Shell and stone necklaces are complete and stable. No modern restoration detected.
Documentation: Accompanied by a signed and notarized affidavit of provenance confirming acquisition by the consignor from Gene Lang in 1992, and by Gene Lang from James A. “Dolph” Williams prior to 1966.
An extraordinary and complete prehistoric assemblage - beautifully preserved, impeccably documented, and deeply evocative of the artistry and far-reaching trade systems of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan world.
This lot is offered in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and international laws. The consignor has affirmed that the items described herein were legally acquired and have been held in private ownership prior to the passage of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (1979) and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (1990). The auction house makes no independent warranty as to age, origin, or legality beyond the documentation provided. Prospective buyers are responsible for reviewing all provenance materials and satisfying themselves as to the lawful status of this property prior to bidding.
Auction Location:
828 Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 87501, United States
Previewing Details:
Preview items in person in Santa Fe, New Mexico December 4th 1-6pm MST (and additional previews by appointment) at Lusher Fine Art.
Taxes:
| Tax | Rate | Desc. |
| SFNM |
8.1875% |
Santa Fe Tax Rate |
Buyer's Premiums:
| From (Incl.) | To (Excl.) | Premium |
| 0.00 |
Infinite |
25% |
Additional Fees:
Shipping Details:
Pickup is available in Santa Fe, NM by appointment only please email info.lusherfineart@gmail.com; 24-hour notice is appreciated.
We can provide in-house shipping or you can use a local third-party shipper (listed below). Contact the shipping company directly to make arrangements.
PAKMAIL
369 Montezuma Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Telephone: 505.989.7380
Email: jacobm@weshipsantafe.com
THE UPS STORE
Jacki Wilson
223 N Guadalupe St. | Santa Fe, NM 87501-1850
Telephone: 505.982.0974
Email: store1750@theupsstore.com
Note: Lusher Fine Art & Auctions does not endorse one shipper over any other and clients are responsible for securing their own shipping quotes. Lusher Fine Art & Auctions takes no responsibility for any acts or omissions of any of the vendors.
Complete Shipping Release
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Payment Details:
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