Pre-Columbian, Central Peru, Inca, ca. 1000 to 1500 CE. A wondrous greyware portrait jar that departs from traditional realism to a more abstract depiction with finely delinated striations encircling his eyes emphasizing his hypnotic gaze, the linear markings radiating outward to cover his entire visage. Intriguingly, this individual was portrayed with a double-cleft palate. To the ancients of the Americas, individuals with physical deformities were regarded as touched by god and therefore quite special. Topping his head is a simple cap that terminates in the spout. Size: 9-1/2"H x 6-3/4"L x 5-5/8"W (24.1 cm x 17.1 cm x 14.3 cm).

During the reign of the Incas, Peru had been the seat of outstanding pottery production for thousands of years. The Moche had developed the stirrup vessel to an art form full of expression and fascinating insight to the ancient Andean culture. The Inca followed in this tradition, however, in some instances they elaborated their own artistry and technique as we see in this example.

Provenance: Ex-D. C. collection, California. Emmy Award Winning Hollywood writer and Executive Producer, collected before 2000. Ex-Arte Primitivo, New York City.

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#109171

Chips to rim and base. Expected surface wear. Nice root markings all over surface and white mineral deposits which contribute nicely to overall appearance.