Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chimu/Inca culture, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. A spirited blackware burnished pottery effigy stirrup vessel in the form of a monkey standing squarely on all 4 paws with a sinuous tail curling from his posterior. Enveloped in a deep black glaze, the playful primate's expressive visage is comprised of bulging, almond-shaped eyes, a wide nose with flaring nostrils, small ears, and a closed mouth on a protruding jaw. An adorable petite monkey sits upon the handle at the juncture between the stirrup and emerging vertical spout. The iconography of this vessel is highly symbolic. Monkeys have always fascinated humankind, with their zany antics that seem to mirror and, at times, parody humans. Understanding simian creatures as mimics of human culture, most ancients of the Americas regarded the monkey as a mediary between man and the supernatural. A lovely blackware vessel from these indigenous of ancient Peru, impressive for its artistry, technical prowess, and layered symbolism! Size: 8.7" L x 10.5" H (22.1 cm x 26.7 cm)
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 1995 to 2010; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, collected from 1950 to 1960s
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#168193
Condition
Collection label on base. Repaired from several pieces with restoration. Chipping to spout with expected light abrasions, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent.