Weight Representing a Llama Possibly 1450 - 1532

This small, intricately crafted ceramic sculpture, dating back to the Inca period (1450-1532), depicts a llama, a crucial animal to the Inca civilization. Found in the Art Institute of Chicago, this sculpture, measuring only 3.8 × 3.2 cm, demonstrates the skillful artistry of the Inca people, showcasing their keen observation of animal forms and their ability to capture them in miniature. The sculpture, with its detailed features and subtle color variations, suggests it was likely used in a ritualistic or ceremonial context. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and spiritual practices of the Inca civilization.