Lot 179A
Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Chancay, ca. 1000 to 1470 CE. A large Chancay pottery double-chamber bridge whistle vessel, masterfully crafted in a cream-hued clay. The vessel is composed of two globular chambers joined at their midsection, each rising from a ringed foot. A tall cylindrical spout emerges from one chamber, while the other is crowned by a modeled bird, perched with outstretched wings and short beak, set beneath the arching strap handle. Ingeniously designed, the vessel contains an internal whistle mechanism: when air is blown into the spout, a clear whistling tone issues forth from the bird's beak, enlivening the creature with sound as if it were singing. Whistle vessels such as this were more than utilitarian containers - they embodied sound, ritual, and symbolism. Among Chancay potters, birds held profound spiritual resonance, often linked with fertility, water, and celestial realms. Size: 11.8" L x 4.1" W x 11.2" H (30 cm x 10.4 cm x 28.4 cm)
The double-chamber form may have further echoed duality, balance, or the interplay between life and death, central themes in Andean cosmology. With its refined symmetry and playful sonic element, this vessel would have animated ceremonies with both visual presence and audible power, merging artistry with sacred performance.
Provenance: private Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, acquired in 2022; ex-John Moran collection, Denver, Colorado, USA; ex-Daniel K. Statnekov collection, acquired 1970s to 2003
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#196807
- Condition: Professionally repaired and restored with repainting over break lines. Chipping to rim of spout and some surface wear as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent presentation with good remaining detail. Still functions as a whistle.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping
Artemis Fine Arts
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 + | $500 |