Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Vicus culture, ca. 200 BCE to 600 CE. A charming pottery whistling vessel presenting a rounded bottom and a bulbous body with a tapered spout at one end connected to the form a zoomorph, perhaps intended as a monkey, that rises from the other end, all enveloped in a rich red glaze with liberal remains of black and cream abstract motifs. Gazing forth from huge, drilled eyes, the adorable animal displays a pinched nose with delineated nostrils and a lengthy smile. A pair of sizeable ears flank his head as he bends both tubular arms at their elbows to place his petite paws to his cheeks. A strap handle connects the verso of the zoomorph to the spout. Blow through the spout to create a delightful whistling sound! Size: 7.4" L x 4.5" W x 8.6" H (18.8 cm x 11.4 cm x 21.8 cm)

Vicus ceramics were influenced by the Gallizano and Salinar cultures, north in Ecuador. What was the purpose of a vessel like this? We believe that it and ones like it played a role in funerary culture, as grave offerings, and in feasting, to drink ritual liquids. It may also have been also used in funerary feasting, a practice known from the ancient Andes, where the remains of ancestors were brought out to be feasted with on important days.

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection; ex-Heritage Auctions, New York, New York, USA, December 5th, 2010, New York Signature Pre-Columbian Art Auction #6056, lot #56362

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#170297

Losses to rim of spout. Repainted in some areas with possible restoration to zoomorph head and handle. Expected nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments.