Stirrup Spout Vessel Depicing Erotic Scene Possibly 1100 - 1470

This vessel, depicting an erotic scene, was made by the Chimú people of ancient Peru using molded clay. The dark coloration is no accident, but reflects a highly developed ceramic tradition. Chimú pottery was fired in a reducing atmosphere – that is, starved of oxygen – which resulted in the clay absorbing carbon and turning black. This sophisticated kiln technology indicates a culture with specialized labor. The same effect could have been achieved with paint, but the Chimú chose a far more technically demanding approach, likely for aesthetic reasons. Note also the smooth, almost polished quality of the clay’s surface. The labor invested into burnishing the piece must have been considerable, as must the effort to create such an intimate and figurative scene. Thinking about the skilled work involved truly brings the object to life, and makes it much more than just a static form.