Lot 142
Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Post Conquest Inca, ca. 16th to 17th century CE. The skill and artistry displayed on this vessel is beyond impressive. Carved from a single piece of wood, the vessel is comprised of a tall kero with two integral slithering serpents spiraling around the exterior walls - their heads at opposite ends of the rim and their tails just above the base. The snakes are painted with spotted patterns - one in cream, chocolate brown, and grey on red hues, the other in cream and red on chocolate brown hues. Visible beneath the serpents are the beautifully decorated walls of the kero - with incised and painted chevron zigzags and geometric motifs in red, grey, peachy cream, and chocolate brown hues. Size: 4.75" in diameter x 6.25" H (12.1 cm x 15.9 cm)
In the Pre-Columbian world, animals were highly symbolic beings. Serpents were metaphors for rain and blood, two life-giving fluids. At the same time, they were viewed as creatures that portend great danger. Their ability to shed their skin each year, and thus rejuvenate themselves, also made them symbolic of health and renewal. A striking vessel replete with strong technique, attractive form, and layers of symbolic meaning.
Provenance: ex-Leonard Lyle Dees collection, Topeka, Kansas, USA, acquired between 1950 and 1970
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#148509
- Condition: Surface fissure on the neck of the brown snake. Otherwise, normal surface wear with a few old nicks and some pigment loss. This said, much pigmentation and detail is well preserved. Interior shows earthen deposits that have settled in carved recesses.
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