Pre-Columbian, South Coast of Peru, Nazca, ca. 220 BCE to 125 CE. A striking polychrome vessel of an overall organic, phytomorphic form and extremely thin walls that are finely painted with six slithering serpents and protruding floral motifs in hues of red, orange, cream, black, grey, and white. These snakes may reference the Serpentine Creature whose body is traditionally filled with trophy heads, or they may simply depict actual snakes in nature which provide a fascinating element of Pre-Columbian iconography in their own right. They were regarded to be a beneficial source of nourishment and at the same time quite deadly with their poisonous venom. Also important to the indigenous was the fact that snakes shed their skin annually thus rejuvenating themselves and serving as symbols of renewal and good health. A strong example with an amazing iconographic program adorning its exterior walls. Size: 7.25" in diameter x 6.25" H (18.4 cm x 15.9 cm)

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection

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#136735

Chips to base and rim. Pressure fissures on and a bit above the base. Expected surface wear commensurate with age.