The art of Pre-Columbian Ecuador is essentially
ritual art. Objects, which give us aesthetic
pleasure, were not created for the sake of
artistry, but to express complex, abstract
cosmogonist ideas. This very intriguing vessel
depicts a figure with a monkey face, a bulbous
body, and a head fashioned into a rounded bowl.
The small face is finely modeled and given
considerable expression, especially in the eyes
and delicate nose. Though reduced in size
compared to the rest of the body, the face
nonetheless stands out as a relief form against a
plain background. The right arm is placed on the
wrist of the left hand, which in turn rests against
the upper left portion of the forehead. The
monkey's sexual organ is clearly defined, and it
is a matter of speculation whether the artist was
trying to achieve realistic anatomical detail; or
more likely, the figure has a fertility/ fecundity
connection. Though we may not know its original
purpose, this does not prevent us from enjoying
the pure form, graceful curves, and enigmatic
character of this remarkable vessel.
- (PF.2261)
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