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Figure Vessel

9th–4th century BCE
Not on view
Human figures are represented by the Chorrera people with rounded, full-volume forms and a minimum of anatomical detail. This figure's body forms a vessel. On its back, fat arms at its sides and short legs extended, it has a large, round opening in its stomach. The broad head has a plain, tight-fitting cap or coiffure, while the facial features are simply modeled; the slightly raised eyes and mouth have incised horizontal grooves separating the lids and lips. The pierced earlobes, common on many Ecuadoran figures, may have once held ornaments. The genderless body is decorated with incised lines, perhaps indicating a textile pattern. Red pigment is rubbed into the matte surface on the head, arms, and legs, and around the raised lip of the vessel opening.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Figure Vessel
  • Date: 9th–4th century BCE
  • Geography: Ecuador
  • Culture: Chorrera
  • Medium: Ceramic, slip
  • Dimensions: H. 2 3/4 × W. 5 3/4 × D. 3 7/8 in. (7 × 14.6 × 9.8 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics-Containers
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1987
  • Object Number: 1987.113
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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