Lot 37A
Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chancay, ca. 1000 to 1200 CE. A remarkable pottery effigy figure of a rotund llama or alpaca, standing on 4 nubbin legs, all enveloped in beige-hued slip. The petite head boasts a dramatic expression with a gaping mouth as though letting out a sonorous wail, while simultaneously acting a vent hole for firing and a spout for the vessel. Prominent female genitalia is displayed beneath the looped tail; an attribute that when combined the animal's excessive obesity casts the piece as a symbol of abundance and fertility. Size: 7.7" L x 5.9" W x 8.9" H (19.6 cm x 15 cm x 22.6 cm)
According to the Walters Art Museum: "The llama, a native camelid of the Americas, touched all aspects of Andean life. The llama- the only native American beast of burden-was used primarily to transport goods from the coastal deserts to the highest mountain plains. Well adapted to the extremes of the Andean environment, including climate, terrain, and altitude, the llama was at the heart of every Andean home. The llama and its camelid cousins (alpaca, guanaco, and vicuña) provided the all-important hairs that were spun into fibers to weave warm garments of considerable strength and durability. Such clothing was crucial for survival during cold Andean nights and in the altiplano highlands. Llamas also provided body heat for shepherds and other laborers who could not return to a warm home every night. Llama blood was an important ritual offering, and its meat was occasionally consumed for protein, although the high value of the living animal made these latter uses infrequent and of special significance. During the Late Intermediate Period, the Chancay Valley and adjacent Chillon Drainage developed an energetic corporate style of architecture and art. Large amounts of ceramics were produced and distributed among the ruling elite as well as those of lesser status. Among these are the distinctive mold-made and hand-modeled sculptures of humans (both men and women) and animals."
Provenance: Cultural Patina Gallery, Burke, Virginia, USA; ex-Arthur Sackler Collection, acquired before 1990
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#188184
- Condition: Chipping to proper left ear and bottom of right legs. Light surface wear as shown, but otherwise, intact and very nice. Good remains of slip to surface.
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