South America, Peru, North Coast, Chimu
Description
Joined Double Vessel with two Figures
ca. 900 - 1430 CE
clay
7 1/4 x 4 7/8 x 7 1/2 inches
In the absence of a written language, the specific narratives on these two vessels from the Chimu culture are still a mystery to anthropologists. With that said, they do impart information about some of the social issues of their day. The terracotta pot refers to the strict social stratification system in Chimu society with the larger and more elaborately dressed figure taking precedent over his smaller counterpart. The two are covered with spondylous (spiny oyster) shells, a highly prized possession, indicating they are of the elite class.
Date
ca. 900 - 1430 CE
Creator
South America, Peru, North Coast, Chimu
Source
Gift of Dr. Stephen S. Goodspeed and Mrs. John Goodspeed Ainsworth
Identifier
1966.13.a
Collection
Citation
South America, Peru, North Coast, Chimu, “South America, Peru, North Coast, Chimu,” UCSB ADA Museum Omeka, accessed April 19, 2024, http://art-collections.museum.ucsb.edu/items/show/15778.