Mystery Inca artefact up for sale

The owner of the rare 16th century artefact, who is from Shenstone near Lichfield, brought it to a valuation day run by Hansons Auctioneers. Charles Hanson,

manager of the auction house, said it was a mystery how the flask had found its way there from what is now Peru.

"We don't know how the vendor acquired the object," he said.

The auctioneer said it was possible the flask was a souvenir brought back by the owner's grandfather, who travelled widely during the late 19th century.

Mr Hanson said the array of treasures unearthed in homes across Lichfield was a constant surprise, but that the Inca flask was unique.

"I'm more used to unearthing Royal Doulton figures and tea sets," he said.

"But his pottery flask is unique, very distinctive. It has a figurative mask at the base of the neck and is typically decorated with a geometric diamond pattern."

Despite dating back to around 1500, the 8in flask is in good condition.

"Despite some minor rim wear, the flask still retains its original glaze," Mr Hanson confirmed.

"To think it probably pre-dates Henry VIII, we can only wonder what history this vessel has seen."

The flask is expected to fetch up to £500 when it goes under the hammer on July 15 at the Mackworth Hotel in Derbyshire.

The Incas rose to conquer South America's western edge from the mid-15th to mid-16th century, including large parts of modern Ecuador and Peru.

The Inca capital of Cusco became the richest city in the New World.

Hansons Auctioneers holds regular antique valuation days in Staffordshire villages such as Little Aston and Kings Bromley.

For more details e-mail service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk