Lot 135
Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Manteno, ca. 1000 CE. A tall figural incensario, finely modeled from terracotta to depict a male nude who stands at attention with his arms at his sides (somewhat reminiscent of Greek kouros figures, only with both feet together rather than depicted in a stride). The figure presents an impressive, wide shouldered build as well as a focused face comprised of coffee bean shaped eyes, a prominent nose, and gently smiling lips. Though naked with delineated genitalia, he does wear large earspools and a grand headdress that also serves as the shallow, platter-like container for the incensario which was most likely used to burn copal incense. Notice that his buttocks is rendered with slit opening for the additional emission of incense smoke or embers. The figure stands upon a circular base attached to a concave pedestal. Size: 8.9" Diameter x 16.4" H (22.6 cm x 41.7 cm)
The Manteno artist who created this piece exposed it to an oxygen-poor environment, known as a reducing atmosphere. This resulted in a build-up of black carbon producing its iconic black coloring. Many cultures throughout the world have used incense for both religious purposes in rituals, as well as in secular contexts, for the pure pleasure of enjoying the aromas produced when burned. The Pre-Columbian Manteno peoples were no exception, and their unique aesthetic is displayed in this skillfully sculpted incensario. Incense and other materials were burned as food for the gods, as it was believed that the deities could only consume substances that were burned and offered to them in the form of smoke that flowed upward toward the celestial realm.
For similar incensarios please see the Art Institute of Chicago (1974.6) and the Gardiner Museum (G83.1.316).
Provenance: private Redwood City, California, USA collection
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#182972
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration over some break lines and chipping along other visible break lines. Nicks and abrasions to surface, commensurate with age. Otherwise, nice presentation with good remaining details.
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