Double-Chambered Vessel Possibly 100 - 700

This double-chambered vessel was made in Teotihuacan, Mexico, by an unknown artist. It’s made of stone, and carved to resemble a human head. The material has clearly been critical in determining its aesthetic, with the artist working directly into its mass by cutting away the surface with sharp tools. You can see the marks left behind, defining the eyes, nose and mouth. These read as minimalist, yet also expressive. The creation of the vessel represents a considerable investment of labor. The stone is relatively hard, so the carving must have taken time and skill. The form of the head suggests this wasn’t just an act of anonymous making. It likely held special value for its user, perhaps a leader or priest who wanted to honor the traditions of their culture. This remarkable work challenges our conventional art categories, showing how the production processes are tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption.