Chimú Blackware Stirrup Spout Bottle

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

Magnificent blackware stirrup spout bottle. Fascinating square-profiled stirrup, flat-rimmed spout and conical chamber sitting upon an circular pedestal foot. Tapering projections (corncobs) at stirrup base and stepped lugs below. Little bird is seated at the handle and eating corn. Upper portion of chamber decorated on both sides with two rows of motifs, three mythical birds, touching beak to tail, and below is row of stepped- fret-and-key motifs. Vertical mould seams down sides, including stirrup spout. 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. 

Very good condition. Intact. Age-related minor wear and fractures. Encrusted polished patina. Size approx. 18,5cm x 14,0cm x 9,8cm.

Provenance: Private collection from Finland.

For a similar example see:

Vessel, The British Museum, Accession Number: Am1941,04.55 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/E_Am1941-04-55)