Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Casa Grande, earliest type of stirrup vessel called "Classic Chavin", ca. 1200 BCE. A very fine example of the early monochrome stirrup vessels found in the mountains and river valleys of Northern Peru with a characteristically large arched stirrup spout rising above a gable-roofed house vessel body. Both the roof as well as the stirrup above are intricately incised with stippled and incised patterns creating a marvelous textured effect. A wonderful example, likely used to store coveted fermented corn beer known as "chicha." Size: 4.25" L x 4.25" W x 8.625" H (10.8 cm x 10.8 cm x 21.9 cm)

In addition to being iconographically rich, ancient Andean stirrup vessels were also practical. Their narrow openings prevented rapid evaporation of the precious liquid within - a great advantage given the extremely dry deserts of Peru. Note also that the shape of the neck made it easy to carry. Two stirrup vessels could be tied to the ends of a cord and suspended over a llama's back or a person's shoulder.

The Chavin civilization is generally regarded as the Andean mother civilization - oftentimes compared to the Olmec of Mexico. Both the Chavin and the Olmec cultures created the earliest Pre-Columbian visual culture that continued to flourish until European contact in the 16th century.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, collected from 1950 to 1960s

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#161459

Nicks to rim of spout, peripheries of roofline and base. Expected surface wear with scuffs and minute nicks commensurate with age. Nice burnishing marks. Collection label on underside of base.