Artwork Page for Vessel with Reclining Figure and Birds

Details / Information for Vessel with Reclining Figure and Birds

Vessel with Reclining Figure and Birds

2200–200 BCE

Andes, north coast, Cupisnique style

Medium
Ceramic, pigment (cinnabar?)
Measurements
Overall: 14.3 x 14.9 cm (5 5/8 x 5 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of John and Agneta Solomon 2017.55
Public Domain
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Location
232 Andean
Print
?

Did You Know?

The stirrup-shaped form of the spout is common among Peruvian ceramics and unique to the ancient Americas.

Description

This ceramic vessel features a supine human being pecked by two birds that perch on the vessel’s doughnut-shaped chamber. The identity of the apparently mythical creature modeled in low relief on the sides of the stirrup-shaped spout is unknown. Little can be said about meaning beyond pointing out an obvious reference to death.
A dark, burnished ceramic vessel features a circular base supporting a thick arched handle with a cylindrical spout. Within the arch, a figure reclines on their back, surrounded by four birds positioned at the head, feet, and handle sides. Red pigment fills incised lines, accentuating circular medallions on the base and linear patterns on the birds. This sculptural scene integrates animal and human motifs into the vessel's functional arched structure.

Vessel with Reclining Figure and Birds

2200–200 BCE

Andes, north coast, Cupisnique style

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