Polished black effigy beaker

ca. 13th - 15th century

Ritual drinking vessels were used in different contexts by Chimu of varying social rank. Made of ceramic, this beaker in the form of a stylized head was probably modeled after gold or silver vessels made for prominent individuals. The burnished black surface resembling tarnished silver is created in the firing process.

Ceramic

4 1/8 x 3 3/16 in. (10.48 x 8.1 cm)

Diam.: 2 5/16 in.

Diam. bottom: 2 in.

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

67.58

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Feasting with the Gods: Art and Ceremony in Ancient Mesoamerica and the Central Andes, December 11, 2003 - July 19, 2004

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