1950s Shipibo Amazon Figural Vessel - 8.25" H X 4.75" Diam.

Figural Shipibo vessel that is a polychrome pre-fired, slip-painted earthenware (clay) pottery made by the Shipibo women of the Ucayali River in Peru. The geometric designs, known as "kene,"are inspired by nature, cosmology and dreams. The designs on the pottery are considered sacred spiritual patterns that represent energy and permeate creation. The face on the pottery is referred to as a "tinaja" face and is a result of dimensional face molding, that is a traditional feature of the ancient Peruvian art form. The Spanish word "tinaja" (large earthen jar), is also known as water pocket, tank, pools and potholes. The "tinaja" face on the pottery identifies the pottery as a water jug vessel.

The piece has a rounded pedestal base which tapers up to a large rounded center and further tapers up to a round top. The center and top of the pottery has a cream colored background on which are black geometric designs. The top of the pottery is a head - the eyes with pupils, protruding nostrils and zigzag mouth are seen. The bottom round area has narrow rectangular-shaped designs. The ears and the arms are seen. The back of the pottery is not embellished and is an orange color. 

With its neutral tones, it would be at home in a variety of interior settings from Boho, California Casual... to Eclectic or Coastal Modern Design. Use it as a stand-alone piece or combine it with our other offerings to build a tribal pottery collection.

Place of Origin: Peru

Date of Manufacture: 1950s-1960s 

Condition: Very Good

Wear: Some paint is chipped around the base edge. Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions: 8.25 in. H X 4.75 in. Diam.  

Reference: 

Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian

Lam Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University

Daily Art Magazine, The Link Between Shipibo Pottery and Feminine Identity: Designs from the Peruvian Amazon by Lauren Dorsey

Explore more Amazon Pottery at Our Taste Design.