Who is the plump-cheeked individual portrayed
on this early Peruvian vase? Is he a god of the
wind, set to release his drafty breath upon the
world? Are his wide-staring eyes and serpent-
painted cheeks meant to frighten away spirits
and demons from the bottle's contents? Very
possibly, he represents a Peruvian warrior
chewing coca leaves, perhaps in preparation for
battle. The stimulant coca was commonly used
in Ancient Peru as an antidote to the high
altitudes, and as a source of energy. A
harmonious symphony of curves, this bottle is a
masterpiece of the potter's art. As with any
important artifact, it offers revealing information
about the culture that created it.
- (K.023)
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