Ritual Vessel Representing a Woman Carrying a Vessel (Aryballos) and Nursing a Child Possibly 1200 - 1450

This ritual vessel representing a woman carrying a vessel and nursing a child, was created by the Chimú-Inca people. It’s made of earthenware, a readily available material, that speaks to the ingenuity and skill of its makers. The vessel’s warm, earthy color comes directly from the clay itself. It was likely shaped by hand, perhaps using coils of clay that were then carefully smoothed together. The surface has a tactile quality, inviting a close look at the subtle variations in texture. The modeling is quite detailed, with clear attention paid to the woman’s features, her clothing, and the child she holds. This vessel transcends mere utility, becoming a powerful symbol of nourishment and motherhood. The very act of forming this vessel from clay, shaping it with skilled hands, imbues it with cultural significance, and invites us to consider the essential role of women within Chimú-Inca society. It reminds us that even the simplest materials, when transformed through skilled artistry, can embody profound meaning.