Chimú Figural Blackware Monkey Vessel

Pre-Columbian era, Chimú culture, c. 800-1470AD, Moche Valley, Trujillo, Peru.

Absolutely stunning Chimú blackware vessel. The Chimú ceramics fullfilled both functions, for daily use of household and for ceremonial offerings. Pottery types tended to be standardized, with quantity production, made on molds, and generally of a plain black ware. The pottery were fired in a kiln deprived of oxygen, causing the iron compounds in the clay to turn black. Lighter ceramics were also produced in smaller quantities. The characteristic brightness was obtained by rubbing with rock that previously had been polished. Many animals, fruits, characters, and mystical entities have been represented pictorially on Chimú ceramics.

Aged blackware jar with curious small-sized creature, almost human in his expression, is in fact a monkey. Monkeys were not native to the coastal regions of Peru, but it is believed they were imported from Ecuador to the north and kept as pets, or trained to harvest fruits from trees. The embossed ring that encircles the jar (and the waist of monkey) suggests his captive state. Very likely he was buried to amuse his ancient owner through eternity. Globular shape with a corseted neck and a flared rim. Monkey figure at the base of neck, with bended arms, legs and the tail. Good condition. Hole on the side. Chip to rim. Repaired arm. Age-related minimal wear. Lovely patina. Size approx. 15,0cm x 14,5cm x 12,0cm.

Provenance: Finnish private collection