Artwork Page for Male Effigy Vessel

Details / Information for Male Effigy Vessel

Male Effigy Vessel

100–650 CE (thermoluminescence date, 410–1010 CE)

Peru, South Coast, Nasca, Early Intermediate Period

Medium
ceramic and slip
Measurements
Overall: 28.8 x 16 x 17 cm (11 5/16 x 6 5/16 x 6 11/16 in.)
Weight: 680 g (1.5 lbs.)
Credit Line
Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund 2012.116
Public Domain
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Location
232 Andean
Print
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Did You Know?

This figure holds a human head, which the Nasca viewed as a source of great power.

Description

The style is typically Nasca: modeling is minimal and the surface is decorated with the vibrant, earth-colored slips that are a hallmark of Nasca ceramic art. Male figures are a well-known category of Nasca ceramic production, although the shape of this one, which stands upright on two legs and is additionally supported from behind by a long loincloth, is unusual.
A tan ceramic vessel is shaped like a standing man with a large head and a patterned cap forming an opening. His face features wide eyes with dark markings and an open mouth. He wears a geometric collar, a striped waistband, and a white loincloth over reddish-brown legs. In one hand, he holds a staff; in the other, he clutches a smaller human head. Patterns decorate his shoulders and arms.

Male Effigy Vessel

100–650 CE (thermoluminescence date, 410–1010 CE)

Peru, South Coast, Nasca, Early Intermediate Period

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