Rare Pre-Columbian Recuay Kaolin pottery bowl
- Regular Price
- $1,500.00
- Sale Price
- $1,500.00
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Recuay polychrome pottery bowl is a rare and significant artifact from the Early Intermediate Period (200–600 CE). Distinguished by its sculpted human face in high relief—a feature rarely seen in Recuay ceramics—this piece exemplifies the sophistication and symbolic artistry of the ancient Andean culture. The finely modeled face, with wide, circular eyes, a bold nose, and a stylized black hairpiece, conveys an expressive and ceremonial quality, reflecting themes of identity, power, or spirituality.
The bowl’s surface is coated with a kaolin slip, a refined clay that gives the piece its smooth, cream-colored finish, providing an ideal base for the vibrant red, black, and white polychrome pigments. Intricate geometric motifs and abstract patterns encircle the exterior, showcasing the Recuay artisans’ meticulous attention to detail. The use of kaolin slip and the rarity of a face in high relief combine to make this bowl an exceptional example of Recuay ceramic tradition. 6" in diameter x 3 1/4" in height. Ex Private Florida collection acquired prior to 1970.
Repaired from 5 pieces with restoration over the break lines. A small 1 inch section to the right side below the face was replaced with new material otherwise intact.
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