Chancay Pottery Figural Jar

Pre-Columbian era, Chancay culture, 1000–1470AD, Peru

This remarkable hand-modeled figural pottery vessel embodies the distinctive artistic style of the Chancay civilization. Crafted in an ovoid form, the effigy represents a shaman holding a conical offering cup (kero), likely used for hallucinogenic rituals. His coiled arms rest before his chest, reinforcing the ritualistic nature of the piece.

The stylized figure is expertly rendered with a voluminous globular body and a small, expressive head. His wide eyes with dilated pupils, arched eyebrows, perky ears, pointed nose, pursed lips, and protruding chin evoke the intoxicated state associated with shamanic trance. An elaborate turban, decorated with a large medallion attached to bands, crowns his head, while his tunic, adorned with horizontal stripes and geometric motifs, reflects traditional Andean textiles. A loop handle on the verso adds to the vessel’s functional design.

The Chancay culture, which thrived along Peru’s central coast from 1000–1470 AD, is celebrated for its distinctive, unpolished ceramics. Crafted from gritty clay, Chancay pottery features a matte surface coated with a white slip, over which dark brown geometric and figural designs were painted. These ceramics, often found in burial sites, served as grave goods, reflecting their ritual and funerary significance.

This rare and evocative artifact not only showcases the mastery of Chancay ceramicists but also offers a glimpse into the spiritual practices and shamanic traditions of this enigmatic Pre-Columbian civilization.

Good condition. Areas of chipping to rim. Minor nicks and pitting, all commensurate with age. Encrustation and dust. Size approx. 14,4cm x 10,5cm x 12,5cm. 

Provenance: Finnish private collection