A set of ivory and silver mounted Gaucho 'Bolas' or 'Gaucho Balls' with leather lace

A set of ivory and silver mounted Gaucho 'Bolas' or 'Gaucho Balls' with leather lace

Argentina, circa 19th century

Diam. 5 cm (each)

Bolas or Bolases is a weapon famously used by Gauchos to trap cattle, but is also found in excavations of Pre-Columbian settlements. In Patagonia the weapon is used by indigenous people to catch or injure large birds like the Rhea.

Provenance:
Private collection, London
Acquired by us in 2019

Part of the The Americas collection.