{"product_id":"pre-columbian-vicus-pottery-feline-whistling-vessel","title":"Pre-Columbian Vicús Pottery Feline Whistling Vessel – Peru, ca. 100–500 CE","description":"\u003cp\u003eExceptional Pre-Columbian Vicús terracotta whistling vessel (\u003cem\u003ehuaco silbador\u003c\/em\u003e) from ancient Peru, dating to approximately 100–500 CE. This masterfully sculpted ceramic depicts a powerful feline — likely a jaguar or puma — shown baring its teeth in an expressive and highly animated form. The animal is rendered with prominent eyes, pronounced muzzle, and muscular body beneath a graceful arching bridge handle and flared spout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhistling vessels were among the most sophisticated ceramic forms produced in ancient Peru. Designed to emit sound when liquid or air moved through the chambers, these ceremonial objects combined sculpture, engineering, and ritual function. Felines held deep symbolic importance throughout ancient Andean cultures, representing strength, spiritual authority, and shamanic transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe vessel retains attractive red slip pigmentation and excellent surface character throughout, with strong sculptural presence and authentic age. A highly collectible example of early Andean ceramic artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDetails\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eCulture: Vicús Culture, Peru\u003cbr\u003eDate: ca. 100–500 CE\u003cbr\u003eMedium: Terracotta pottery with red slip glaze\u003cbr\u003eForm: Whistling vessel (\u003cem\u003ehuaco silbador\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eHeight: 7.75 in  |  Width: 6 in  |  Depth: 4.25 in\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eProvenance\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eGuillermo Salazar, Lima, Peru, October 1969; Private Minnesota Collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncient condition with wear consistent with age and material. Evidence of repair\/restoration to portions of the handle. Small loss to the spout. Scattered scuffs, pigment loss, and minor surface abrasions throughout. Presents exceptionally well.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Vicús Culture","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53225793093999,"sku":null,"price":2250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0984\/6967\/5375\/files\/s-l1600-151.jpg?v=1784499647","url":"https:\/\/www.lybrothersfineart.com\/products\/pre-columbian-vicus-pottery-feline-whistling-vessel","provider":"L\/Y Brothers","version":"1.0","type":"link"}