Lot 133
Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Vicus culture, ca. 200 BCE to 600 CE. A charming pottery whistling vessel presenting a rounded bottom and a bulbous body with a tapered spout at one end connected to the form a zoomorph, perhaps intended as a monkey, that rises from the other end, all enveloped in a rich red glaze with liberal remains of black and cream abstract motifs. Gazing forth from huge, drilled eyes, the adorable animal displays a pinched nose with delineated nostrils and a lengthy smile. A pair of sizeable ears flank his head as he bends both tubular arms at their elbows to place his petite paws to his cheeks. A strap handle connects the verso of the zoomorph to the spout. Blow through the spout to create a delightful whistling sound! Size: 7.4" L x 4.5" W x 8.6" H (18.8 cm x 11.4 cm x 21.8 cm)
Vicus ceramics were influenced by the Gallizano and Salinar cultures, north in Ecuador. What was the purpose of a vessel like this? We believe that it and ones like it played a role in funerary culture, as grave offerings, and in feasting, to drink ritual liquids. It may also have been also used in funerary feasting, a practice known from the ancient Andes, where the remains of ancestors were brought out to be feasted with on important days.
Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection; ex-Heritage Auctions, New York, New York, USA, December 5th, 2010, New York Signature Pre-Columbian Art Auction #6056, lot #56362
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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#170297
- Condition: Losses to rim of spout. Repainted in some areas with possible restoration to zoomorph head and handle. Expected nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments.
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