Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Chancay, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. A tall standing, hollow-molded, bichrome pottery cuchimilco (or stargazer) - characteristically female and detailed with petite nipples as well as upraised arms with bent elbows and open hands with stylized fingers. Her broad, flat face is detailed with coffee-bean-shaped eyes, a pointy petite nose, and a slightly opened mouth held in a gentle smile. Capped with a rectangular headdress, the head is adorned by a painted headband comprised of intricate stylized geometric motifs in chocolate brown over the white ground. The face is further embellished with lined eyes with bold rays extending upward and outward as well as tattoo marks on the cheeks. A striking demonstration of the artistic prowess of the Chancay culture. Size: 12.5" W x 24.25" H (31.8 cm x 61.6 cm); 25" H (63.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Such large Chancay figures are usually female. They characteristically possess a simplified body, small vestigial arms raised to the sides and a flattened face with markings on the chin and brow and a geometric headband. The purpose of such figures is unknown; however, as they have been frequently discovered in Chancay graves, some scholars argue that they may have represented a symbolic female companion to accompany the deceased into the afterworld. This said, a few male/female pairs have been found in gravesites, hence challenging this theory of female companionship.

The Chancay people were exceptional ceramic and textile artisans, and archaeologists have often found cuchimilcos in the tombs of Chancay nobility. Some scholars believe that their outstretched hands were intended to absorb negative energy. Chancay artisans created ceramics that are quite distinctive in form and decoration - finely painted and molded with specific decorative details carefully added by hand as we see in this example.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection, acquired in June 2011; ex Arte Primitivo, New York City, New York, USA

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#165536

Repaired from at least 7 large pieces with restoration over break lines. Expected surface wear, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice remaining pigments.