Globular Jar with Repeated Abstract Motifs in Sprial Design Possibly 600 - 1000

This globular jar, crafted by the Tiwanaku people, is a testament to the artistic skill of this pre-Columbian civilization. The jar, dating from possibly 600 to 1000, features a striking design of abstract motifs in a spiral pattern, painted in red and black on a brown background. The abstract motifs, reminiscent of stylized animals or geometric designs, are a recurring theme in Tiwanaku art. The jar’s two handles, crafted in the same style, add to its functionality. This object, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, provides insights into the aesthetic and cultural practices of the Tiwanaku civilization.