Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca culture, ca. 100 BCE to 800 CE. A haunting, evocative Nazca polychrome stirrup vessel in the form of a disembodied head, its eyes and mouth depicted as slightly raised, with thin slits indicating that they are closed; the nose is thin and fleshless. Lines drawn around the mouth and under the eyes may indicate that they are sewn shut. The face is heart-shaped, with the rest of the head covered in black paint, including a small raised flap at the back, indicating the coiffure. Twin-spouts rise from either side of the narrow, flat stirrup handle on the top of the head. In absolutely incredible condition, with fantastic remaining pigment. Size: 5.65" W x 5.8" H (14.4 cm x 14.7 cm)
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: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid-1980s
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#141153
Condition
Intact, in excellent condition, with wonderful remaining pigment.