Description Pre-Columbian, Peru, Inca, ca. 15th to early 16th CE. A wonderful Inca kero, carved from a single piece of wood to create a gracefully flared tumbler vessel, with incised geometric motifs likely inspired by textile patterns. Skillfully hand-carved (rather than made on a lathe) and incised with an upper register of checkerboard-like woven motifs and a lower register of running triangular motifs, this vessel was most likely used for drinking Chicha - a fermented corn beer favored by the indigenous. Size: 5.25" W x 6.5" H (13.3 cm x 16.5 cm)
See a similar example at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession number 1994.35.11).
Provenance: ex-New York, New York, USA collection; ex private West Virginia, USA collection, acquired 1960s to 1970s
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#156454
Condition Report Minor abrasions to walls and rim, with water damage to base and basin floor, and very light softening to exterior details, otherwise intact and very good. Great patina throughout.