Lot 66
Pre-Columbian, North Central Peru, Chimu/Inca, ca. 1470 to 1523 CE. A lively blackware pottery vessel with a near-spherical body and a flared spout, the body in the form of a jaguar head featuring an expressive visage with heavy-lidded, almond-shaped eyes, a long nose, scores of whiskers enveloping a wide, open mouth full of sharp fangs, and twin, cup-shaped ears. The form of this vessel with its distinct spout is very much indicative of the Inca; however, the blackware finish suggests Chimu - hence the vessel was probably created by a Chimu artisan under Inca rule. A lovely blackware vessel from the indigenous of ancient Peru, impressive for its artistry, technical prowess, and layered symbolism! Size: 5" L x 4.3" W x 7.5" H (12.7 cm x 10.9 cm x 19 cm)
The iconography of this vessel is highly symbolic, as the jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. The principal deity of the Moche, whose ceramics inspired subsequent Peruvian cultures including the Chimu/Inca, wears a headdress adorned with a jaguar head and paws and important mortals donned similar headdresses. A nocturnal animal, the jaguar sleeps in caves and dark places and creeps quietly in the forest, evoking great mystery.
Provenance: ex-private Jim Carroll collection, Maryland, USA, excavated or purchased in Peru in the 1960s, thence by descent to present owners
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#181612
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done very well and difficult to notice. Some nicks and abrasions to surface, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent presentation and nice remaining detail with earthen deposits on interior.
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