Beaker Depicting a Costumed Performer Holding Decapitated Head c. 180 - 500

This Nazca beaker from c. 180-500 CE, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, depicts a costumed figure holding a severed head. The figure's face is painted in red, with prominent eyes, a small nose, and a wide mouth with teeth. The figure also wears a necklace and headdress, with a detailed pattern covering the rest of the body. The artwork is a testament to the Nazca's artistic skill and mastery of pottery, highlighting their unique cultural beliefs and practices.