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Rare Aztec Polychrome Pottery Flute Uilacapitztli

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Rare Aztec Polychrome Pottery Flute Uilacapitztli
For your consideration this lot includes a Rare Aztec Polychrome Pottery Flute Uilacapitztli, circa 1300 - 1500 C.E. A human effigy decoration is sculptured near the mouthpiece, with two flanges below the effigy acting as a stand for the pipe. At the end of the flute is a pierced rim design. There are four finger holes on top for changing the pitch. Although numerous types of instruments survive from pre-conquest South and Central America, little is known of how they were used. Whistles, trumpets, and rattles in animal or human form probably had ceremonial functions. Provenance: the Owen D. Mort, Jr. Collection. Owen David Mort was an American engineer who amassed an impressive collection throughout his worldwide travels. His collection has included art, artifacts and other historical items from which he has donated to museums at the University of Utah and Snite Museum of Art, the University of Notre Dame, including African, Afghan, Asian, and Native American artifacts. This pre-Columbian flute with red painted mouthpiece and shaft is in nicely preserved condition. Effigy exhibits colours of cochineal red, white, maize yellow, and turquoise blue. Bell has colours of maize yellow and tinges of red. Minimal chipping noted, measures 13"H, 4"W at the effigy, weight is 10oz approximately.