Native American, American Midwest and Southeast, Mississippian, ca. 1300 CE. A fine example of a rare ceramic type, from the four corners area of Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma. The vessel is comprised of an ovoid body rising to a cylindrical neck, all upon a short concave foot. The walls are impressively thin, with a smooth finish and beautiful, mysterious incised engravings embellish the body. These include a double-headed serpent-like being with spikey projections rising from its heads which present expressive visages with large eyes and forked tongues. Running triangular motifs adorn the creature's back, and cross-hatch patterns embellish the crests on its heads, eyes, lower body, and legs. Joining this creature is a stylized star/sun motif. This piece is probably an example of Caddoan pottery which was the finest type produced by the Mississippian culture, with very thin walls, intricate motifs, and well-proportioned forms. Size: 6.36" W x 6.5" H (16.2 cm x 16.5 cm)

Provenance: private Kansas City, Missouri, USA collection; ex-John Townsend collection, formed in the 1970s and earlier

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#161660

Abrasions to surface. Chip and abrasion to rim. Otherwise intact and very good with light mineral deposits and nice details.