Lot 17
Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chancay culture, ca. 1200 to 1450 CE. A large, hollow made pottery Cuchimilco figure, standing with wide eyes, small nose and mouth, and facial decorations that are representative of either scarification or tattooing. An incised line around the genital area indicates this is a female figure. The square head is painted with patterns used in Chancay textiles to resemble a headband, and piercings along the top of the head may have once held real textile tassels or dangling decorations. The arms are thrown out to the sides as if staring to the heavens in wonder. Scholars posit that these "star gazers" were placed in tombs as companions or guardians of the deceased. Size: 7.5" W x 15.75" H (19 cm x 40 cm); 16" H (40.6 cm) on included custom stand.
Such large Chancay figures are usually female. They characteristically possess a simplified body, small vestigial arms raised to the sides and a flattened face with markings on the chin and brow and a geometric headband. The purpose of such figures is unknown; however, as they have been frequently discovered in Chancay graves, some scholars argue that they may have represented a symbolic female companion to accompany the deceased into the afterworld. This said, a few male/female pairs have been found in gravesites, hence challenging this theory of female companionship.
Provenance: Cultural Patina Gallery, Burke, Virginia, USA, acquired November 2016; ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA; ex-private Atlanta, Georgia, USA collection; ex-Thibadeau collection, acquire 1960 to 1980
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#188211
- Condition: Some small repairs and restoration with new material to the edges of the extended hands, left ear, and left foot and toes. Some abrasions to surfaces, but overall great condition with great remaining pigment.
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