Collection of Two Pre-Columbian Cupisnique Stirrup Ceramic Vessels Peru
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Description
A collection of two small pre-Columbian ceramic stirrup vessels in Cupisnique style circa 700-500BCE. These ancient vessels from the formative period are distinct in a robust form with a signature thick stirrup sprout. Always dark in natural colors that reflect the fired clay, they could be molded after animal figures, or decorated with incision, or sometimes, such as in this case, in a simpler abstract form. One vessel on offer here features a body that represents a fruit, likely guanabana (soursop). On one side of its stirrup sprout, there is a small loop, suggesting the use of string attachment for easy carry. The other vessel features bosses within concaved circles protruding throughout the body. Both were smoke fired and burnished and show visible deposits from earth elements in the ground. One pot is 7.25"h x 4.5 dia. The other is 7"h x 5.5"dia.
The Cupisinque culture flourished from circa 1500 to 500 BCE along what is now Peru's Northern Pacific Coast. It shares artistic style with Chavin culture, which rose from the same area in a slightly later period (900-200 BCE). As two distinct but related cultures, their relationship is not entirely understood. It also shares similar ceramic designs with much later Moche culture (100-700AD), suggesting a cultural lineage.
Provenance: From a private American collection acquired in Peru circa 1970s. Hence by descent.
Many similar abstract stirrup vessels are in the collection of Museo Larco in Lima, Peru such as ML015051.
Another similar piece is in the collection of Metropolitan Musuem of Art: Accession Number: 1978.412.205 -
More Information
Origin: Peru Period: Pre 18th Century Materials: ceramic Condition: Good. Intact with expected patina such as light abrasions and earth deposit. Examined under UV. Minute flea bites on mouth rim. The fruit pot has a small kiln burst and doesn't have a flat base. It stands upright with the help of two little spacers. Creation Date: 700-500BCE Number of Pieces: 2-3 Styles / Movements: Pre-Columbian, Traditional Patterns: Abstract, Geometric, Handmade Incollect Reference #: 819845 -
Dimensions
H. 7 in; Diam. 5 in; H. 17.78 cm; Diam. 12.7 cm;
Message from Seller:
Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.