Pre-Columbian, Western Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. An endearing, voluminous, and highly-burnished redware effigy vessel, the form comprised of conjoined ducks, each with plump bodies, coffee-bean-shaped eyes, slender necks, folded wings, slightly-protruding tails, and a single spout between them. Prominent beaks project in front of their conical heads as they swim side by side, with their diminutive tails following behind. The exterior is covered with a red-orange slip, with some faded areas displaying a burnt orange hue as well. A large and expertly-crafted example from ancient Western Mexico! Size: 10" W x 6.25" H (25.4 cm x 15.9 cm).

Iconographically in the Pre-Columbian world, ducks were viewed as sacred animals of the watery realm and the sky world as they could both dive deep under water and fly long distances through the air. Duck effigies of West Mexican shaft tomb cultures like the Colima represented species of the Anatidae family and probably acted as spirit guardians for the deceased. In addition, duck effigies were associated with fertility and rebirth. A very lively example of this symbolic form.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private T. Misenhimer collection, Hollywood, California, USA, famous Hollywood film producer

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#133779

Vessel repaired from multiple pieces, with some areas of restoration, resurfacing, and overpainting along break lines. Surface wear and abrasions, fading and some discoloration to pigmentation, with small nicks to spout, heads, and base. Light earthen deposits within vessel, and nice mineral deposits and root marks throughout.