Pre-Columbian Chavin pottery feline vessel

This is a rare Pre-Columbian Chavín Marañón feline pottery vessel, originating from the highlands of ancient Peru and dating to approximately 900 BCE to 200 BCE. The vessel takes the form of a stylized feline, likely representing a jaguar, a creature that held significant spiritual and symbolic importance in Chavín cosmology. The jaguar was often associated with power, transformation, and connections to the divine in Mesoamerican and Andean cultures.

The figure is crafted with a polished red and cream-colored clay, exhibiting intricate geometric patterns etched into its surface. These patterns accentuate the feline’s body, with bold lines framing its face, legs, and tail. The abstraction of form, particularly in the facial features with prominent round eyes and sharp teeth, creates a dynamic and slightly fierce expression. The vessel’s spout is located on the back of the figure, connected to the head by an arched handle, suggesting its function as a ceremonial or ritualistic container, likely used to pour liquids during religious rites.

The polished surface is well-preserved, displaying a deep red hue contrasted by the lighter cream elements, indicative of Chavín ceramic artistry. The balance of stylization and naturalistic feline elements highlights the sophistication of Chavín artisans, who were skilled in blending symbolic imagery with functional design. The figure’s bold and striking appearance reflects the Chavín culture’s emphasis on the spiritual power of animals and their integration into ritual practices.

This feline vessel is not only a functional artifact but also a profound example of the Chavín civilization’s spiritual and artistic heritage, showcasing their ability to imbue everyday objects with deep cultural and cosmological meaning.

Spout is made from new material. The toes of two paws, and a small section of the tail was repaired otherwise all original, including all of the paint. A fine example! Private Fl. 8 1/2" in height x 10 1/8" in length.