Pre-Columbian Nariño Ceramic Bowl – Radial Anthropomorphic Motif

Culture: Nariño
Date: ca. 800–1500 CE
Medium: Hand-built ceramic with resist-slip decoration
Dimensions: Height: 3 3/4"; Diameter: 7 1/8"
Region: Nariño Highlands, southern Colombia

An exceptional Pre-Columbian ceramic bowl from the Nariño culture of highland southern Colombia, dating from circa 800–1500 CE. This expertly hand-shaped vessel is decorated using a resist-slip technique, revealing a dynamic composition of four stylized human figures arranged radially around a central starburst or floral element.

Each figure is rendered in bold, geometric abstraction with raised arms and angular legs, suggesting dance or ritual movement. The negative painting reveals ochre-colored figures against a deep brown background, framed by red linear elements that emphasize radial energy and motion.

The bowl is burnished and mounted on a wide pedestal base, a form often associated with ceremonial use. The visual power and symmetrical precision of the design make this an iconic example of Nariño ceramic aesthetics.

Collection: Ex. Williamson Auction Gallery, Ex. Private Fl. collection acquired in the 50's-60's

Significance:
This bowl offers a significant example of Nariño visual culture, where the integration of human imagery and abstract forms reflects broader Andean symbolic systems. Its formal and decorative qualities provide insights into the ritual, social, and aesthetic values of one of Colombia’s major pre-Hispanic societies.