A fine Inka Silver Llama, Inka Empire - early Colonial Period, ca. 1400 - 1600 CE

Finely cast solid silver standing votive llama, modeled with a tall, elongated neck, alert perked ears, and a raised tail. The chest is articulated with a clearly defined triple-tufted dewlap, a characteristic feature of high-quality Inka camelid miniatures. Facial features are crisply rendered, with subtle detailing to the eyes and mouth. The figure stands firmly on four evenly proportioned legs terminating in simplified hooves.

Camelids, particularly llamas, held central economic and symbolic importance within the Inka world as sources of transport, wool, and ritual sacrifice. Miniature silver examples such as this were produced as votive offerings and are closely associated with state-sponsored ceremonial practices, including highland offerings and capacocha rites, where precious metal figurines were dedicated to deities and sacred landscapes as acts of reciprocity and devotion. 

Medium: Silver

Dimensions: Height: 1 1/2 Inches (3.5 cm)

Condition: The surface shows a consistent deep gray to silvery-brown patina with minor pitting and scattered burial accretions, entirely consistent with age. There are no visible cracks, losses, or repairs, and the casting appears solid and complete, including the tail and all four legs. Overall preservation is notably strong for a silver miniature of this type. A lovely example.

Provenance: Formerly in the collection of Alan C. Lapiner (1933–1975), owner of Arts of the Four Quarters, New York; subsequently with Veracruzana Inc., New York, 1960s; Edward H. Merrin Gallery, Inc., New York, 1960s; thence to a private New York City collection.

Alan C. Lapiner was a New York–based collector and dealer active primarily in the mid-20th century, best known for his involvement in Pre-Columbian, African, and ethnographic art. He operated within the network of postwar New York galleries and private collectors who were instrumental in forming early U.S. collections of Pre-Columbian material during the 1950s and 1960s.

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