Detail View: The AMICA Library: Double-Spout Jar

AMICA ID: 
CMA_.1948.477
AMICA Library Year: 
2000
Object Type: 
Decorative Arts and Utilitarian Objects
Creator Nationality: 
South American; Pre-Columbian; Paracas
Creator Name-CRT: 
Peru, Ica Valley, Paracas
Title: 
Double-Spout Jar
Title Type: 
Primary
View: 
Full View
Creation Date: 
c. 300 BC-AD 100
Creation Start Date: 
-300
Creation End Date: 
100
Materials and Techniques: 
earthenware with post-firing resin paint
Classification Term: 
Ceramic
Classification Term: 
Ceramic
Style or Period: 
Peru, Ica Valley, Paracas
Creation Place: 
Peru, Ica Valley, Paracas
Dimensions: 
Diameter: 14.2cm, Overall: 11.3cm
AMICA Contributor: 
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Owner Location: 
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
ID Number: 
1948.477
Credit Line: 
Gift of John Wise
Rights: 
Context: 
Jars with two spouts linked by a bridgelike handle were common in the south coast region of ancient Peru, and were manufactured by both the Paracas and Nasca cultures. In this case, one spout is modeled as a bird's head, and the other forms its tail. Paracas vessels are distinguished by incised designs filled in with thick, resin-based paint that was applied after firing. Unlike slip-painted decoration (which is bonded to the vessel during firing), the resin-painted surface is fragile. However, the technique produces a glossy surface and intense, saturated colors (including green, which cannot be obtained with fired slip). This vessel is decorated with felines, probably small pampas cats, and curving pods or chili peppers.
Related Image Identifier Link: 
CMA_.1948.477.tif