Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chancay culture, ca. 1200 to 1400 CE. A rare example of a large, egg-shaped vessel from this culture that is not in the form of a human figure and is painted with three colors - most are anthropomorphic, and most are only black and white. In relief on either side of this vessel is a figure of a pelican-like bird with a long, serpent-like neck and foreshortened legs and wings. The beak is particularly emphasized, shown in profile. These birds, painted white with black details, are on a ground of deep, earthy red. Above them is a short, flaring neck and two delicate strap handles. Size: 15" L x 10.5" W (38.1 cm x 26.7 cm)

The eyes and coloration details suggest that the artist was a close observer of these majestic birds who live on the Peruvian coast. Birds are some of the most popular motifs in Chancay art, ceramic, metallic, and textile, perhaps suggesting a connection with the sky and the gods. The pelican may have been a popular animal for more practical reasons. Their skill at fishing was probably studied enviously by the Chancay people. Chancay ceramics have been found mainly in the cemeteries of the Ancon and Chancay valleys; it was produced on a large scale using molds specifically for funerary purposes.

Provenance: Cultural Patina Gallery, Burke, Virginia, USA, acquired in January 2019; ex-Artemis Gallery, Lousiville, Colorado, USA; ex-private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired in November 2018; ex-Clars Auction Gallery, Oakland, California, USA; ex-Arte Xibalba, Sarasota, Florida, USA

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#188281

  • Condition: Two probe holes on lower body and another beneath one handle. Small chips and nicks from surface, but otherwise in very nice condition with good remaining pigment as shown.

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August 9, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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