Double Spout and Bridge Bottel Painted with Cream and Orange Slips c. 650

This ancient ceramic bottle, known as a "bottel" in Paracas culture, dates back to around 650 CE. The Paracas people, renowned for their intricate textiles and impressive pottery, crafted this piece from clay, using cream and orange slip for decorative accents. The double spout and bridge handle, characteristic of Paracas ceramic artistry, suggest its use in rituals or ceremonies. This bottel, now part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Paracas people.