Miniature Bowl with Abstract Red and Black Geometric Patterns Possibly 1450 - 1532

This small, ceramic bowl, created by the Inca people sometime between 1450 and 1532, exemplifies the geometric patterns and artistic mastery of pre-Columbian Andean art. The bowl is decorated with a striking combination of red and black geometric designs, including zigzags, diamonds, and squares, against a natural clay background. Its small size suggests its use as a personal or ceremonial object, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and artistic expression of the Inca civilization. Today, this bowl resides in the Art Institute of Chicago, serving as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Andean region.