Jar in the Form of a Human Head with Face Painting and Bound Lips c. 180 - 500

This Nazca ceramic jar, created between 180-500 CE, depicts a human head with stylised features and bound lips. The vessel's form and decoration, which includes geometric patterns and face painting motifs, are characteristic of the Nazca culture. The artist's use of red, black, and white paints on the buff-colored clay adds vibrancy to the work. This piece, housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the artistic skill and cultural practices of the ancient Nazca people.