Pre-Columbian, Southwestern Mexico, probably Puebla area, Mixtec culture, post-Classic period, ca. 1300 to 1521 CE. An attractive, hand-built pottery vessel presenting a deep bowl with a rounded bottom and thick walls that rise to a flared rim, all sitting upon 3 legs in the form of zoomorphic heads. Skillfully painted with red on cream decoration, the ancient vessel displays an elaborate decorative program reminiscent of the markings of a viper or rattlesnake, comprised of horizontal striations, triangular motifs, and swirling patterns. Each of the fascinating feet displays a serpentine head featuring narrowed eyes, square snouts with incised nostrils, and slightly open mouths. Size: 7.2" Diameter x 5.1" H (18.3 cm x 13 cm)
Provenance: ex-Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA collection; ex-private Tennessee, USA collection, acquired from the 1960s to 1970s
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#168319
Condition
Some restoration and repainting to rim. Resurfacing on legs and base, as well some stable hairline fissures to basin. Expected nicks and abrasions throughout, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments and nice mineral deposits.