Bowl in the Form of a Llama with Geometric Motifs Possibly 600 - 1000

This ceramic bowl, in the form of a llama with geometric motifs, is a captivating example of Tiwanaku artistry from the 6th to 10th centuries. The vessel, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases the intricate designs and masterful craftsmanship characteristic of this ancient Andean civilization. The llama's stylized form and the bold geometric patterns painted in red, black, and white on a buff-colored surface demonstrate the Tiwanaku's skill in ceramics and their symbolic use of animal imagery. This piece is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Tiwanaku people, who flourished in the highlands of modern-day Bolivia and Peru.