Finely carved stone ceremonial kero depicting a powerful feline emerging from the front of the vessel, its expressive face rendered with prominent eyes, rounded ears, and an open mouth displaying stylized fangs. The vessel is skillfully hollowed from a single block of stone and exhibits a well-developed surface patina, ancient wear, and mineral encrustations consistent with long-term age.
Stone keros are among the more desirable ceremonial objects of the Tiwanaku civilization, a culture renowned for its monumental architecture, sophisticated stone carving, and complex religious traditions centered around the high Andes. Unlike the more commonly encountered ceramic examples, stone vessels were prestigious objects likely reserved for elite ceremonial use, including ritual libations and important communal gatherings.

Height: 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)

Provenance: Ex. Ruby Catalano, Malta, New York; Ex. James Cole Estate, acquired prior to 1970.