Pre-Columbian Nariño Seated “Coquero” Figure
Capulí Cultural Complex, Highlands Nariño Region, Colombia
c. 800–1500 AD

A finely modeled Pre-Columbian Nariño pottery figure depicting a seated coquero, a figure associated with the ritual chewing of coca leaves in ancient Andean culture. The figure sits with legs extended forward and hands resting on the thighs, a posture characteristic of Nariño ceramic sculpture.

The head is rendered with stylized facial features including almond-shaped eyes, a prominent nose, and a calm expression. The long hair or headdress falls smoothly behind the head and neck. The lower garment is decorated with painted geometric and linear motifs, typical of the Capulí cultural complex ceramics of the Nariño highlands.

Coquero figures symbolize the culturally significant practice of coca chewing, which played an important role in ritual life, social exchange, and spiritual practices throughout the Andean world.

Height: 6 1/4 inches (15.9 cm)

Provenance:
Ex Frances L. Wolfson Collection
Acquired by Frances W. Cary, May 6, 1975, Arte Primitivo, New York.
Copy of Arte Primitivo invoice included from 1975.
Accompanied by a copy of a letter dated May 13, 1975 confirming payment of $808.00 to Arte Primitivo.
Also accompanied by an appraisal letter dated May 25, 1990 from Frances Louise Wolfson & Marine R. Corp., valuing the figure at $2,000.

A well-documented example of Nariño ceremonial pottery, representing the important Andean tradition of coca ritual depicted in Pre-Columbian ceramic art.