Pre-Columbian, North Coast of Peru, ca. 750-1375 CE.  Unusual blackware vessel featuring the Sican deity Naylamp.  According to archaeologist Izumi Shimada, the term Sican means "temple of the moon;" how poetic!  The Sican culture is also referred to as Lambayeque, named for the particular region of Peru.  This culture succeeded the Moche culture and adopted the Moche's passion for stirrup vessels embellished with rich iconography.  This particular example pays homage to Naylamp, the key deity in Sican mythology, depicted with characteristic masked face and upturned eyes quite prominently on the spout with four other figural depictions, two on the handle and two on the body of the vessel. Perhaps these are adorants of Naylamp; perhaps they represent kings whose line originated with Naylamp.  According to the Nickle Art Museum's esteemed catalogue "Ancient Peru Unearthed: Golden Treasures of a Lost Civilization", Naylamp was regarded as the founder of the first dynasty of prehistoric kings in La Leche and Lambayeque valleys. Here is a bit more on the history of this significant deity, "In The Legend of Naylamp, first recorded in the 16th century by the Spanish chronicler Miguel Cabello de Balboa, Naylamp is said to have traveled on a balsa raft by sea to the Lambayeque shores. He founded a large city, and the 12 sons of his eldest son each founded a new city in the Lambayeque region. When Naylamp died, he sprouted wings and flew off to another world."  (Nickle Arts Museum. (2006). Ancient Peru Unearthed: Golden Treasures of a Lost Civilization. Calgary: The Nickle Arts Museum, p. 18 and 65) As legend goes, Naylamp would sprout wings.  So sometimes Naylamp is shown with avian features, such as beaks, wings, and talons.  Here the artist suggests the act of flying or floating through the positioning of these figures.  A wonderful piece, rich in provenance and skillful technique. Gorgeous for its form and burnished finish.  Size:  4-3/4"H (12cm) .

Provenance: Ex-Powell Collection, White City, Oregon, acquired before 1964

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#101813

Small nick on rim of spout, possible repair to lower end of handle, small loss to headdress of one figure adorning handle, two probe holes on lower body, overall normal surface wear and fair to good condition.