Blackware Vessel in the Form of a Feline Sitting on the Back of a Bird c. 180 - 500

This blackware vessel, created by the Nazca people of Peru, is a striking example of ancient ceramic art. Dating back to between 180 and 500 CE, the vessel is shaped like a feline sitting atop a bird, a motif that is often found in Nazca iconography. The vessel is characterized by its smooth, black surface and intricate detailing, including the feline's sharp ears and the bird's outstretched wings. The vessel's form and decoration reflect the Nazca's keen observation of the natural world and their belief in the power of animals, making it a fascinating piece of art and a valuable window into ancient Andean culture.