Lot 54
Pre-Columbian to Post-Conquest, North/Central Coast of Peru, Chimu culture, ca. 1479 to 1532 CE. A wonderful vessel of rare form depicting an ulluchu fruit - an Andean crop and species of the genus Guarea (Meliaceae) known for its erotic and hallucinogenic effects. The jar displays a bulbous body with vertical bands of stippling, a curved neck, and a pointed head. The ophidian appearance of the head indicates that this vessel likely served as a ritual watering device known as a paccha, as serpents were associated with water in Chimu iconography. Though the jar is typically Chimu in its phytomorphic motif and fine pressure mold technique, its flared spout is typically Inca. The representation could be interpreted as a squash, a fruit whose seeds were consumed as food and which was also used as a container. However, the gourd was never represented in the Moche area with the long comma-shaped neck or vertical lines, as seen here. Size: 5.4" W x 9.6" H (13.7 cm x 24.4 cm)
The ulluchu fruit is laden with symbolism, usually appearing in artworks in scenes relating to war and the ritual drinking of a prisoner's blood, a common practice in the Moche culture. The chemical composition of this species supports the hypothesis of consumption of this fruit in ceremonial contexts to facilitate removal of the sacrificial victims' blood since its components can increase blood pressure, cause arrhythmia, spasms, and expansion of blood vessels. The fruits of ulluchu are usually depicted on the Moche scenes of sacrifice or scenes where priests seem to be intoxicated by its consumption.
An identical vessel can be found in the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art under part code MCHAP 0549.
Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection, acquired 1987; ex-Louis Redstone, Detroit Michigan, USA
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#182671
- Condition: Some light surface wear with nicks and abrasions as shown. Otherwise, intact and excellent with great remaining detail.
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