Miniature Bowl with Geometric Textile-Like Pattern Possibly 1450 - 1532

This small, ceramic bowl, created by Inca artisans sometime between 1450 and 1532, is a prime example of pre-Columbian art in the Americas. The bowl’s simple, rounded form is adorned with a geometric textile-like pattern, a hallmark of Inca art, utilizing red, black, and white pigments. This decorative style, often seen on textiles and ceramics, was a crucial part of Inca cultural identity, highlighting the intricate artistic traditions of this Andean civilization. The bowl's diminutive size suggests it was likely used for personal or ceremonial purposes. Now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, this exquisite piece offers a glimpse into the artistic legacy of the Inca Empire.