Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca, ca. 100 to 300 CE. An impressive pottery kero presenting a rounded base and tall walls that taper inwards to a circular rim, all meticulously hand-painted in hues of burnt orange, marigold, beige, maroon, powder blue, lavender, black, and brown. The exterior of the ancient vessel is intricately painted with 4 horizontal registers featuring, from top to bottom: a series of squid-like animals, a row decorated by the anthropomorphic mythical being, a band of steppe and square maze motifs, and a ring of crowned, disembodied heads turned on their side. Size: 4.5" Diameter x 5.8" H (11.4 cm x 14.7 cm)

Disembodied "trophy" heads were very popular motifs in Nazca artwork. Archaeological evidence shows that these stylized depictions were based on real rituals - over one hundred mummified trophy heads have been found from Nazca excavations, almost all with a puncture to the front of the skull for suspension. Archaeologists specializing in this culture continue to argue over the significance of these heads in Nazca culture. Were these intended to represent warriors fallen in battle? The idea of taking the power of enemies by assuming ownership of a crucial part of their bodies? A remembrance of deceased relatives? The questions remain and are so intriguing.

Provenance: private Orlando, Florida, USA collection; ex-Arte Primitivo Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, before 2010

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#168941

Restoration to rim. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments and detail. Collection labels on base.