Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca culture, ca. 100 BCE to 800 CE. A large, well-preserved Nazca polychrome kero (also quero or qero). It is in the form of a disembodied head, probably representing a trophy head, with a tall, conical headdress rising above it. A band of birds encircles the top rim, with a motif of temple steps below them. The artwork is classically Nazca, with thick black lines outlining most of the motifs and bright colors. Size: 3.85" W x 6.75" H (9.8 cm x 17.1 cm); 7.95" H (20.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Archaeological evidence from the 20th century shows that the stylized trophy head form so common to Nazca artwork was based on real rituals. Over one hundred mummified trophy heads have been found from Nazca excavations, almost all with a puncture to the front of the skull for suspension. Archaeologists specializing this culture continue to argue over the significance of these heads in Nazca culture - Warriors fallen in battle? Taking the power of enemies by assuming ownership of a crucial part of their bodies? Remembrance of deceased relatives? The artwork here is an intriguing reminder of this lost culture.

Provenance: ex-Arte Xibalba, Sarasota, Florida, USA; ex-Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA collection

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#137894

Intact, with wonderfully preserved pigment.