Quimbaya Figural Pottery Vessel

Pre-Columbian era, Quimbaya culture, c. 1050-1500AD, Cauca region, Middle Cauca complex, Colombia.

Fascinating figural funerary jar. The archaeological ceramics of the Middle Cauca Valley fall into about eight groups on the basis of surface treatment and decoration. The two major complexes are the Caldas complex (1000-1400AD) and the Middle Cauca complex (1050-1500AD). The Caldas complex are characterized by resist black painting on red slip, and the Middle Cauca complex includes ceremonial artifacts like stirrup vessels, bowls, cups, vases (the specific uses of these are not known), and anthropomorphic (often male) figurines. There is little local variation in decoration or in shape. The abstract slab figures were often designed portraying a social class and included as offerings in burials in tombs representing the guardians or companions for the deceased.

Fantastic earthenware jar of bulbous, slightly compressed form with flared lip, the body with face and appendages attributed to the classical Quimbaya culture. Face with characteristic slit coffee bean-shaped eyes, high relief nose, and radiating incised lines and symbols throughout. Vessels like this one were made specifically to be placed into tombs, perhaps filled with libations. Moderate condition. Repaired. Age-related heavy wear. Fractures, chip and abrasion. Nice encrusted patina. Size approx. 10,0cm x 12,0cm x 12,0cm. 

Provenance: Finnish private collection