Description:

This unusual alligator vessel was created by the Chimu culture of Northern Peru. Its shape departs from the more common stirrup spout vessels of the Chimu culture. Peoples of northern Peru began creating ceramics as early as the second millenium BCE and evolved their techniques over the centuries. The quality of this piece demonstrates that considerable skill and time were invested by the artisan. Most Chimu ceramics exhibit this rich, dark grey to black surface; however, the alligator motif is rare. The fact that this fierce beast inhabits both land and acquatic environs signifies the dualism embraced by Pre-Columbian cultures, a dual existence representing the continuum between earth symbolizing life and the watery realm of the underworld. The alligator's associations with the watery habitat in swamps and rivers also makes it a natural metaphor for fertility. Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chimu culture, ca. 900 - 1470 CE. Unusual depiction and shape, artistic! 7" L/H.Provenance: Ex-New World Artifacts, San Diego, CA. All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

  • Condition: Chips to rim and 2 shell eye insets missing.

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October 11, 2013 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000