Hello Mac,

This item is a stone statue that may be of Incan origin, found during a house demolition of the former curator of collections for the New Orleans Museum of Art, William Fagaly. The statue was discovered in an attic, wrapped in newspaper, alongside books on pre-Columbian art and Incan history. Also found were silver items stamped with “Peru” and maps related to a significant museum meeting in Peru during the 1970s.

The statue is carved from stone and features a stylized representation, possibly depicting an animal or a mythical figure. The craftsmanship and style suggest it could be a pre-Columbian artifact, but further examination by a specialist in Andean art would be necessary to confirm its authenticity and origin. The presence of accompanying items related to Incan culture and history adds to the context and potential significance of the find.

The Inca civilization, which flourished in the Andean region of South America before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, is renowned for its advanced architecture, agriculture, and art. The Incas produced a variety of stone carvings and sculptures that often depicted deities, animals, and important cultural symbols. These artifacts were not only decorative but also held religious and ceremonial significance, used in rituals and as offerings to the gods.

The discovery of this statue, along with the related books and silver items, suggests a strong connection to Incan culture and possibly to significant historical events or collections. The maps and documents related to a museum meeting in Peru during the 1970s hint at a broader historical context, where international interest in pre-Columbian art and archaeology was growing. This period saw increased scholarly activity and collaboration among museums, leading to a greater understanding and appreciation of Incan heritage.