Pre-Columbian, northern Peru, Inca Empire, ca. 1470 to 1532 CE. An impressive mold-formed pottery aryballos, exhibiting a flared rim flanked by 2 petite looped handles for suspension, a long tubular neck, a rounded shoulder, and a bulbous body all atop a pointed base. The body of the vessel features two small handles and a high relief depiction of 3 figures holding hands, perhaps in the act of dancing, in a stepped cave on either side amidst a dotted field. All with similar body forms of broad torsos, lanky limbs, and elongated fingers and toes, the figures on one side represent the group in life, while the verso shows them in the afterlife, as indicated by their skeletal heads. Embellished in a lustrous burnish and rich hues of creamy beige and burnt sienna, this remarkably well-preserved aryballos is replete with skilled artistry and Incan eschatology! Lucite display stand for photography purposes only. Size: 6.25" in diameter x 7.25" H (15.9 cm x 18.4 cm)

Provenance: private Stillwater, Minnesota, USA collection; ex- Artemis Gallery; ex-private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired May 16, 2019; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York, USA; ex-private West Virginia, USA collection, acquired late 1960s to early 1970s

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#182299

Repair to handle on rim and expected surface wear with light abrasions and minor char mark to base. Otherwise, intact and excellent with remarkable remaining pigment.