Pre-Columbian Chavin owl pottery ocarina

A Pre-Columbian Chavín Owl Effigy Ocarina, Northern Highlands, Peru, Circa 900-500 BC

This remarkable Chavín ceramic ocarina is modeled in the form of an owl, a potent symbol in Andean cosmology, associated with wisdom, night, and spiritual power. The effigy, crafted from dark, burnished clay, exemplifies the intricate artistry and symbolic complexity of the Chavín culture, one of the earliest and most influential civilizations in the Andes.

The ocarina features a rounded body with finely incised and textured details, including stylized plumage rendered with meticulous carving across the surface. The owl's large, expressive eyes and sharply defined beak highlight the artist's keen observational skills and symbolic emphasis on the animal's perceptive qualities. Functional as a musical instrument, the ocarina includes a blowhole and finger holes strategically placed for sound production, demonstrating the integration of form and utility.

The polished surface, combined with the textured areas, creates a visually striking contrast that enhances the overall aesthetic. The owl motif likely held ritualistic significance, with ocarinas such as this being used in ceremonies or as part of shamanic practices to connect with the spiritual realm. 2" in height x 2 1/4" wide.