Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Manabi Province, Jamacoaque (Jama-Coaque) culture, ca. 500 BCE to 500 CE. An hand-built pottery vessel of incredible size with a globular olla on the verso and an incredible effigy of a priest on the front, both connected via three large tubes and a thick handle. The priest presents in a nearly full shamanic transformation into a serpent being, with serpents comprising the hands, flooding out around the olla rim, and line the broad skirt flanges with two-headed versions. The removable whistle head of the larger figure presents with snakes on his brow, headdress, eyebrows, and tongue to create an amazingly detailed presentation. Remains of red and yellow pigment are visible across the composition and allude to just how elaborately decorated this vessel was at one time. Size (w/ head): 22" L x 12.5" W x 18" H (55.9 cm x 31.8 cm x 45.7 cm)

This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired May 2012; ex-Bonhams, New York (May 12, 2012, lot 6); ex-Sotheby's, New York (November 2000, lot 228)

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#179826

Head is not attached to the figure's body by design; blowing inside of the neck produces a high-pitched whistling sound. Professionally repaired and restored, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Expected abrasions and nicks, with fading to original pigment, light earthen deposits, and softening to some finer details, otherwise in great condition. Wonderful preservation to overall form given the size, and nice remains of original pigment in several areas.