|
HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Chimu Art : Chimu Blackware Animal Effigy Vessel
|
 |
|
|
|
Chimu Blackware Animal Effigy Vessel - PF.4592
Origin: Chimu, Peru
Circa: 900
AD
to 1200
AD
Dimensions:
8.5" (21.6cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$8,000.00
Location: United States
|
|
|
| Photo Gallery |
|
|
| Description |
The Chimu were inhabitants of the Moche valley
near the modern city of Trujillo, one of the
richest of the river valleys, and home of the Sun
and Moon Pyramids of the Mochicas. They
possessed an extraordinary talent for
constructing superb roads and designing cities
that were later imitated by the great Inca empire.
Chimu ceramic objects were produced with the
same efficiency that characterized their building
skills; with an added aspect of fine artistry and
clever invention. This handsome vessel is both
an abstract work of art and a functional utensil.
It is created in the shape of what is probably an
Llama. Indigenous to the Andes this gentle
animal is beautifully adapted to the climate and
terrain. Its strong legs are cleverly shown on the
sides of the vessel, designed in such a way they
appear to be in motion. Around the nose
appears to be a harness which suggests the
Llama was ridden. There is delight and whimsy in
this vessel's creation which was most likely
intended as a kitchen utensil or for ritual burial.
In either case, by seeing and touching it we come
into closer contact with a race of noble builders
and artisans that have since vanished from the
earth.
- (PF.4592)
|
| |
|
