Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chimu, ca. 1100 to 1470 CE. A marvelous and musical blackware whistle vessel featuring 2 ovoid chambers and bridge-form handle that connects the tapering spout to the raised head of a parrot on the opposite vessel. Each chamber is adorned with relief decoration of stippled and zigzag motifs, while the ribbon-form handle creates a pathway for blown air to flow out of the tone hole of the parrot - making it appear as though the bird is singing! Size: 8.4" L x 4.4" W x 7" H (21.3 cm x 11.2 cm x 17.8 cm)

In the Pre-Columbian world, birds were regarded as sky animals associated with the sun, moon, and Venus - where they served as messengers between humankind and the deities. Of particular importance were the eagle, parrot, and hummingbird. The beak of the bird depicted on this example is closest to that of a parrot. Parrots were and continue to be revered by the ancients of South America. Their brilliant plumage and ability to fly high above the treeline made them ideal incarnations of the sky deities, thought to be endowed with supernatural powers of celestial origin.

Provenance: private Carroll collection, Georgia, USA, by descent; ex-private Jim Carroll collection, Maryland, USA, acquired 1960s

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#181623

  • Condition: Still creates a slight whistle. Some light chipping and possible restoration to rim of spout, as well as nicks and abrasions to surface as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, mostly intact with an excellent presentation. Nice remaining detail and light earthen deposits in areas.

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October 5, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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