Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca culture, ca. 100 BCE to 800 CE. A haunting ceramic vessel in the form of two disembodied heads - trophy heads - each depicted with enormous, almond-shaped eyes, small pointed noses, and pyramid-like motifs painted in red on their cheeks. One has an open mouth and one has a closed mouth; aside from that, they are identical. A double-spouted stirrup handle connects the two heads. Size: 7.75" W x 4.2" H (19.7 cm x 10.7 cm)
Archaeological evidence from the 20th century shows that the stylized trophy head form so common to Nazca artwork was based on real rituals. Over one hundred mummified trophy heads have been found from Nazca excavations, almost all with a puncture to the front of the skull for suspension. Archaeologists specializing this culture continue to argue over the significance of these heads in Nazca culture - Warriors fallen in battle? Taking the power of enemies by assuming ownership of a crucial part of their bodies? Remembrance of deceased relatives? The artwork here is an intriguing reminder of this lost culture.
Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid-1980s
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#141151
Condition
Spout has been repaired and restored; this is well done and difficult to see. Much of the pigment remains.