Pre-Columbian, Peru, ca. 1300 to 1500 CE. The aryballos (storage jar) was a favorite ceramic form of the Inca. As you can see this example boasts a characteristic elegant, long neck with flared rim; however, rather than low-placed loop handles, this piece has petite looped lugs for suspension bridging the neck to the shoulders, and in lieux of a pointed base (an invention created by the Inca for easy pouring), this vessel presents a subtly rounded bottom. Most impressive is the finely delineated iconographic program comprised of four large sinuous animals -- two snakes alternating with two lizards -- and between these, countless miniature stamped avian forms repeating across the upper section of the vase's body. In the Pre-Columbian world, animals were highly symbolic beings. Serpents and lizards were metaphors for rain and blood, two life-giving fluids. At the same time, serpents were viewed as creatures that portend great danger. Their ability to shed their skin each year, and thus rejuvenate themselves, also made them a symbol of health and renewal. Birds, regarded as sky animals, were associated with the celestial sun, moon, and Venus and believed to serve as messengers between humanity and the gods. Overall, a very rare example of stunning Inca blackware replete with a sophisticated form and elaborate iconographic program. Size: 5.75" W x 9.75" H (14.6 cm x 24.8 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private Scollard collection, acquired before 1990

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#114922

A few small chips to the rim as shown. Otherwise intact and near choice. Beautiful burnishing marks.