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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Nazca Art : Nazca Bowl with Four Trophy Heads
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Nazca Bowl with Four Trophy Heads - PF.0422
Origin: Peru
Circa: 500
AD
to 700
AD
Dimensions:
7" (17.8cm) wide
Catalogue: V2
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$9,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
It has been said of Nasca art that; "the coloring
of Nasca ware and the sensitivity it displays in
the harmony of ornamentation and form are
unmatched at any period, anywhere in the
world." (Ferdinand Anton, "The Art of Ancient
Peru"). An example of this can be seen is this
very charming vessel, which was probably made
as a funerary gift. The sides of the bowl are
decorated with four trophy heads, the severed
prize of the gods collected from sacrificial
deities. The blood that ran from the heads of
decapitated victims was believed to nourish the
earth, providing for a bountiful harvest.
Although this subject matter is rather gruesome
to our tastes, here, the heads are depicted with
whimsical delight. They smile, perhaps aware
that their sacrifice will honor the gods of the
earth. Although created over a thousand years
ago, the bold lines and vibrant hues of Nasca art
makes this work appear as if it could be
contemporary. One could imagine Picasso
instead having painted such designs.
- (PF.0422)
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