Mica-like Specs in Possible Pre-Columbian Whistle

Discussion in 'Tribal Art' started by AntiqueBytes, Feb 12, 2020.

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Do you think this is an authentic Pre-Columbian piece?

  1. Yes

    0 vote(s)
    0.0%
  2. No

    2 vote(s)
    100.0%
  1. AntiqueBytes

    AntiqueBytes Well-Known Member

    I am not sure about the authenticity of this frog whistle I found. The most outstanding feature of it are these little iridescent specs all over it. I don't know what the specs are but they remind me of mica. If you do a search on "manganese specks antiquities" you see more information about it. I'm told that hydrogen peroxide applied is one test of age, but so far haven't found any of the right strength. I appreciate any thoughts.
     

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  2. anundverkaufen

    anundverkaufen Bird Feeder

    Micaceous clay but I’m not sure where it’s from, maybe Oaxaca.
    @Taupou might be able to help.
     
  3. AntiqueBytes

    AntiqueBytes Well-Known Member

    So micaceous clay can look like this and not be old?
     
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  4. 2manybooks

    2manybooks Well-Known Member

    Micaceous clay is used in pottery made by Taos and Picuris pueblos, in New Mexico. But it is not unique to that area. I don't know if your frog is from there.
     
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  5. springfld.arsenal

    springfld.arsenal Store: http://www.springfieldarsenal.net/

    Look up John Buxton, one of the ARS appraisers. He knows this stuff better than anyone I know of, sometimes he shows up here when he’s mentioned. He’s probably seen dozens just like yours.
     
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  6. 2manybooks

    2manybooks Well-Known Member

    Can you elaborate on this? I have not read about any such test, and it seems it could be quite hazardous for the object.
     
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  7. gregsglass

    gregsglass Well-Known Member

    Hi,
    The manganese spots are tiny specs that come to the surface of really old buried pots and figures. They are black and non sparkling. The peroxide test is to determine if they are new spots or antique ones. Your's has the mica spots which is a new one from different areas of South West and Central America. It is NOT an indicator of age.
    greg
     
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