Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Chimu culture, ca. 900 to 1400 CE. A charming stirrup vessel of a shark with a slightly flattened profile. The underside of the base has a stabilization knob that it rests upon and incised lines on the chin to indicate the rows of teeth. The supple body of the shark curves inward with the tail meeting the head, three protruding fins along the sides, and incised lines for gills. The pointed head and circular eyes give an endearing and almost comical expression to this fierce sea creature. A stirrup handle and spout rise up from the back and a monkey crouches on the handle hugging the spout, as if it is hiding from the circling predator it is riding on. The surface is a glossy black and umber hue. This vessel has an intriguing form and may have been a votive piece for Chimu fisherman that hunted sharks! Size: 7" L x 5.75" W x 6.5" H (17.8 cm x 14.6 cm x 16.5 cm)

For a similar piece please see the British Museum accession number: Am1858,0403.25

Provenance: private southwestern Pennsylvania, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000

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#160179

  • Condition: Chip to rim. Minor age commensurate surface wear. Light mineral deposits. Great details and a rare form!

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November 19, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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