Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Nazca or Huari/Wari, ca. 400 to 600 CE. A very large polychrome terracotta head vessel of a transforming jaguar shaman with a wild visage presenting eyes in circular recessions with red sclera and linear marks as if under the influence of a hallucinogenic substance in order to attain a transformative state, a high relief nose, low relief mouth with partially parted lips, linear marks over the nose and mouth, perhaps to indicate tattoo marks or stitches, spotted jaguar skin, high relief perforated ears that double as handles or lugs through which a cord could be threaded for suspension, and a wonderful nested rectangular motif on the verso - all in a beautiful red, cream, and black palette. Size: 8" W handlespan x 6" H (20.3 cm x 15.2 cm)
The jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. As a nocturnal animal that sleeps in caves and dark places and creeps quietly in the forest, the jaguar also evoked great mystery. No wonder this wild feline captured the ancients' imaginations.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Brent Hudson collection
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#145101
Condition
Repaired from multiple pieces with restoration and some repainting over the break lines. Still, very well done and difficult to see the break lines.