Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Chimu Culture, ca. 100-1300 CE. We begin with a graceful Chimu blackware canteen with a funnel spout and two suspension lugs one either side of it. The iconography on the vessel is embodied by a bird head with prominent hooked beak depicted in profile on the shoulder. The Chimu are best known for their monochromatic pottery. The gorgeous black finish was achieved by firing the pieces at high temperatures in a closed kiln which prevents the oxygen from reacting with the clay. Paired with this vessel we have a Chimu carved bone spoon depicting a bird divinity of the celestial world. As sky animals, birds were revered as they resided close to the moon and the Chimu were moon worshippers. Canteen measures 10"H

Provenance: Ex-Gilbert Martin Collection, Georgia, USA

All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. 9 1/4"H (canteen) 6 1/4"H (bone)

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

Small repaired probe hole to canteen, else excellent