Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Nazca, ca. 100 to 400 CE. An endearing mold-made polychrome vessel depicting a seated rotund figure, nude (with protruding nipples) except for his loincloth, waist sash, and the striped helmet (a very unusual design with a loop on the front rim presumably for attaching ornaments) capping his long brown coiffure. In addition, his body is adorned with tattoos on each arm - a shark on the right arm and a stylized bird on his left arm - as well as red, orange, and beige paint/tattoos upon his expressive face - truly expressive, just look at those puckered lips, wide open almond-shaped eyes, and point upturned nose! The piece is in excellent condition with vivid painted details. Beyond this, the piece boasts ex-Sotheby's provenance. Size: 3.5" W x 6" H (8.9 cm x 15.2 cm).

Provenance: Ex-Private Florida Collection acquired at Sothebys, Nov 20, 1996, lot 204

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#118455

Minor surface wear with pigment losses as shown.