Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chimu, ca. 1100 to 1470 CE. A fabulous, mold-made pottery stirrup vessel presenting a planar base, a spherical body, and a tubular spout, all enveloped in a rich black slip. The body of the ancient vessel is adorned with the relief image of 2 lizards lined head-to-tail horizontally. Each slender reptile exhibits an elongated body with incised stripes, attenuated, bent limbs, and a lengthy tail. Their ovoid heads each show minimalist visages with delineated nostrils and circular eyes. The positioning of the lizards, as though they are biting one another's tail, is reminiscent of the Ouroboros or tail-devouring snake found in many cultures throughout the world. A petite steppe motif additionally embellishes the spout of the lovely vessel. Size: 6" Diameter x 9.5" H (15.2 cm x 24.1 cm)

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

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#159950

Repaired from several pieces with restoration over break lines and to spout and handle. Loss to rim of spout. Expected nicks, scratches, and abrasions throughout, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice with impressive remaining details.