Miniature Effigy Vessel
Date: 3rd century B.C.
Geography: Peru
Culture: Paracas
Medium: Ceramic, post-fired paint
Dimensions: 2 7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
Classification: Ceramics
Credit Line: Gift of Nathan Cummings, 1963
Accession Number: 63.232.88
This small ceramic vessel emanates the form of a deceased individual. A white face with applique ears and nose is highlighted with red and black post-fire resin paint. Two narrow incisions for eyes suggests the individual’s eyes are closed, and thereby deceased. A row of multi-colored geometric shapes encircles the neck, suggestive of an ornate collar. Below the collar black post-fire paint emphasizes the rounded shape of the lower part of the vessel. Perhaps this miniature vessel represents a Paracas funerary bundle itself and it most certainly was included among as one of the many offerings within a funerary bundle.
