Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca culture, Phase 6, ca. 250 to 540 CE. A lovely polychrome bowl boasting classic Nazca characteristics of a simple, flared form finely painted with a row of mythical creatures, likely intended as Feline Guardian figures, on the exterior and a geometric design on the base. Each feline presents a forehead ornament of 2 tall horns and a central plume that falls beside the body to the feet. Their tongues protrude between the glove-like arms, and their lengthy bodies with breechcloths are separated from their heads. Liberal remains of anthropomorphic faces with huge eyes embellish the interior. Size: 6.5" W x 3.2" H (16.5 cm x 8.1 cm)

Cf. Figures 134 and 136 in "Art of the Andes: Pre-Columbian Sculptured and Painted Ceramics from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections" edited by Lois Katz (Washington D.C: Arthur M. Sackler Foundation and the AMS Foundation for the Arts Sciences and Humanities, 1983).

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#174877

Losses to interior decoration and stable hairline fissures to base. Otherwise, intact and excellent with impressively preserved exterior decoration.