Whistling Vessel of Llama Carrying Man and Bags
ca. 1100-1400
Lambayeque
Arts of the Americas
These two ceramic vessels convey the importance of llamas among the ancient Andean cultures. The Lambayeque example representing a man on a llama is unusual, since llamas are normally used as pack animals and are only employed as mounts by merchants during river crossings. Perhaps this vessel represents such a merchant.
The Wari ceremonial cup also depicts a domesticated llama. The gold disc attached to the rope around its neck underscores the animal’s value and ritual importance.
The Wari ceremonial cup also depicts a domesticated llama. The gold disc attached to the rope around its neck underscores the animal’s value and ritual importance.
- Maker/Artist
- Lambayeque
- Classification
- Vessel
- Formatted Medium
- Ceramic
- Medium
- ceramic
- Period
- Pre-Spanish
- Dimensions
- 9 3/4 x 4 3/4 x 9 1/2 in. (24.8 x 12.1 x 24.1 cm)
- Departments
- Arts of the Americas
- Accession Number
- 36.344
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mrs. Eugene Schaefer
- Rights Statement
- Creative Commons-BY
- Museum Location
- This item is not on view
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