Miniature Jar with Bands of Geometric Motifs and Abstract Birds Possibly 1450 - 1532

This small ceramic jar, created by the Inca people sometime between 1450 and 1532, is an example of the sophisticated artistry of the pre-Columbian Americas. The jar, which is on display at The Art Institute of Chicago, is decorated with geometric patterns and stylized birds in brown, red, and white slip. The intricate designs, likely created using a slip-and-resist technique, showcase the skill of Inca ceramic artists, whose works reflect the cultural values and beliefs of the society. This miniature jar, despite its small size, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.