A Narino Pottery Shell Form Ocarina, Classical Period, ca. 500 - 1000 CE
This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.
In the form of a shell with a crouched monkey finial and decorated with a wide incised central band with recurring key and stair motif.
Once dismissed as mere toys or playthings, modern x-ray technology revealed hidden chambers that allowed for the creation of up to 17 different notes in some cases as well as musically advanced scales. Far from being toys, the ocarinas of antiquity are marvels of design and musical knowledge. It is now believed ocarinas were played in sacred ceremonies to induce healing, trance, and invoke different deities and are still used today by many of the surviving indigenous cultures.
Medium: Ceramic
Dimensions: Length: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
Condition: Small chip at the top that does not detract, overall intact and in very good condition.
Provenance: Collection of Maurice Bernstein, NYC and FL, acquired in the 1960’s - 1970’s, collection number 886. Original collection sticker still attached.
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Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
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