Chimú Blackware Monkey Effigy Bottle

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

Magnificent small-sized Chimú blackware effigy bottle with tall neck and wide strap handle. The shoulder of the vessel decorated with repeated monkey relief designs. 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. 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.

Good condition. Chip to rim. Age-related minimal wear. Lovely polished patina. Size approx. 11,0cm x 6,8cm x 6,7cm.

Provenance: From the estate of Swedish antique dealer Björn Wirén. Collected in the 1950's to 1960's.