This composite figure vessel from the Chorrera period, contemporary with the Chavin of Peru and the Tlatilco in Mexico, demonstrates the Ecuadorian craftsmen refined skill at manipulating the medium to create a beautiful and spirited work of ceramic art. We see the body of this delicate black ware vessel sculpted into the shape of a stout bodied bird, its tail feathers gracefully sweeping upward. Geometric decorations on the upper body of the bird highlight its curved shape while delicately carved front wings direct our attention to the neck and spout of the vessel. Here the artist has skillfully molded the face of a human onto the neck of the pot. Slanted eyes gaze out at us while we view his fascinating face, complete with large ornamented nose and ear spool decorations. An everted rim on the vessel tops the human head almost giving the appearance of a hat rim, lowest on the figures head. High spirit and a beautiful sense of balance and harmony in this vessel generate within us a feeling of joy and appreciation we delight in experiencing this work of art while at the same time we applaud the ancient craftsmanship that was involved in creating this imaginative vessel. - (PF.2430)