Pre-Columbian Recuay Warrior Vessel with Llama

Pre-Columbian Recuay Warrior Vessel with Llama, Peru, c. 200 BCE–600 CE

This exceptional ceramic vessel from the Recuay culture of the Peruvian Andes is a striking example of their sophisticated craftsmanship and symbolic artistry. Depicting a highly stylized warrior figure standing beside a llama, the piece blends anthropomorphic and zoomorphic elements in a manner characteristic of the Recuay civilization. The warrior is adorned with a dramatic, multicolored headdress, geometric body paint, and a finely rendered shield, emphasizing his elite or ceremonial status. The llama, sculpted with elegant simplicity, features an open spout, suggesting the vessel's likely use in ritualistic or ceremonial contexts.

The artifact is crafted from terracotta and painted with mineral-based pigments in earthy tones of red, black, and cream. The matte finish and symmetrical detailing demonstrate the Recuay mastery of form and balance. Its iconography reflects themes of social hierarchy, agricultural wealth, and spiritual significance, central to Andean cosmology. A very finely made example! 8 7/8" in height x 6 1/2" in length. Ex. K. Gregory collection acquired prior to 1970.