A Chorrera Whistling Vessel...

Description

A Chorrera Whistling Vessel
Ecuador, c. 1000-300 BC

Hollow ceramic with burnished red-brown and beige slips. This double-chambered whistling vessel is composed of a stocky human figure joined by a bridge handle to a larger rear chamber, with the spout rising at the junction of the bridge. A tube near the base connects the two chambers, creating the whistle mechanism. The figure is simply but effectively modeled, with a compressed head, only the nose and ears brought into relief, and a crescent-shaped cap. Held out before the body is a blade-shaped object, presented with a direct and deliberate gesture. The vessel combines technical ingenuity with the severe, sculptural clarity characteristic of Chorrera ceramics. In very good, intact condition; no apparent repairs or restorations. Tip of the object held at the front missing.

Provenance:
Ex-collection of Emile Delitaille, Brussels, 1990

Length: 8 inches

Estimate: $3,500 - $4,500.

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