Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central Coast Peru, Huari / Wari, ca. 600 to 800 CE. A huge, polychrome urn presenting an intriguing form comprised of a plethora of animorphic figures, all pained in hues of red, black, and beige. The body assumes the form of two molded waterbirds with a zigzag feather pattern likely inspired by motifs employed in Huari textile production, each one with its neck dramatically curled onto its back, clasping a frog-like creature in its pointy beak. Size: 11" W x 10.75" H (27.9 cm x 27.3 cm)

This piece boasts a brilliant composition as the birds are arranged as mirror images of one another. The gently flaring, tall, cylindrical neck is also decorated; here four stylized, animorphic faces are painted in profile upon the upper register. In the Pre-Columbian world, birds wer revered as sky animals associated with the sun, the stars, Venus, and other celestial bodies. In general, avian beings were thought to serve as links between humankind and the celestial realm. Frogs were associated with rain, all the sustenance that rainwater provides, and by extension fertility. A very unusual vessel, impressive for its artistry, technique, and rich nature-inspired iconography.

Provenance: Ex-private Scollard collection, California.

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.

#114935

  • Condition: Tiny repair to rim and a few chips as shown. Surface shows some craquelure and expected wear. Overall very good.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

December 5, 2017 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000