Pre-Columbian, central coast of Peru, Lima-Nievera Culture, also known as Nievera style, ca. 100 to 650 CE. An extremely rare, large ceramic vessel with a fantastical form from a culture that left behind few remains. The lower body is pumpkin-shaped, with painted red, black, and white lines as well as a gently curved base enhancing its gourd-like appearance. Above that, sitting on the broad shoulder, are four flute players who have bodies that are both anthropomorphic and zoomorphic - with largely human-like forms enhanced by rounded ears atop the head and painted whiskers on the face. These mixed human/jaguar figures likely represent shamans or elites, given shapeshifting powers. The inclusion of the flutes relates to the ancient Peruvian practice of musical instruments being played in large ceremonies. The decidedly yonic rim of the vessel - made of two curved ovoids - is raised on four round columns that connect to the shoulder. At the center of this rim is a rounded mound with a short, cylindrical spout and short strap handle emerging from it. Size: 10.25" W x 14.25" H (26 cm x 36.2 cm)

Central Peru during this time was a potent cultural milieu, and the artists who made this vessel existed alongside the Moche, Paracas, Nazca, and Huari (Wari). The Lima culture consisted of a series of temples known as wak'as and cemeteries along the desert coastal strip of Peru in the Chillon, Rimac, and Lurin River valleys. Burials of men and women - royalty and priests and priestesses - include fantastic pottery like this example.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex H. J. Westermann collection, Germany

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#148360

Repaired and restored from multiple pieces. This is exceptionally well done and difficult to see. Excellent remaining pigment and iconography. Two small drill holes for TL test.