Viracocha copper artifact

[Ron Henry]

Hello everyone! I have a question about the unusual patina present on the surface of my pre-Columbian copper artifact gotten out of Tiohuanaco in the 1920's by a Professor Burns who represented the National Geographic and who subsequently donated the majority of his archeological pieces to the Smithsonian Institute. However, he kept this magnificent piece with him until his death. The artifact weighs nearly 20 pounds and measures ten inches by nine inches and almost an inch thick. It is now in my possession and I am trying to discover what comprises the patina that is overwhelmingly thick and blackened on the piece. That is, I always thought that the patina on copper should be more greenish, although there is some green in the black. In the sunlight is has a wonderful iridescent quality. Also, would anyone share their opinion concerning the design that is different in many aspects from the well-known figure on the "Gate of the Sun". More pictures to follow if needed. Thank you for your time and help.

[Ron Henry]

Here are two zoomed images. I had to mess with the gamma and brightness and such to get the actual iridescent colors to come out. If not magnified, the color is primarily black to the naked eye. I want to throw in another question or two if I may. Is this a lost wax process? Does the artifact pre-date the Gate of the Sun? Many thanks again to all.

[Jerry and Kathy Wills]

Wow... That's fantastic. Do you know more about where it was found, aside from the general description you've provided? For example, near Puma Punku, near the Sun Gate... in other words, a more exacting location of its discovery?

[Ron Henry]

Hello and thank you for your interest.It was dug up "near the pyramid" in Tiahuanaco. He never designated which one. Wish I could be more specific.