Head Fragment from a Large Ceremonial Jar Possibly 700 - 800

This fragment of a ceremonial jar from the Tiwanaku culture, dating back to 700-800 AD, is a stunning example of ancient Andean artistry. The fragment, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases a stylized human face with an eye painted in black, white, and grey. The clay sculpture's fragmented nature underscores the passage of time, but the preserved details evoke a sense of the power and symbolism inherent in Tiwanaku art. This piece, originating from the Tiwanaku civilization in the Andes Mountains, is a testament to the rich artistic traditions of pre-Columbian America.