Anthropomorphic Vessel

This Pre-Columbian, terra cotta, effigy vessel from the Americas (c. 900-1300), in the shape of a squat man with short legs, is part of the Dorsky’s World Arts Collection. He stands 8 ¼ inches high. The footed figure’s arms and hands, with incised fingernails, make the handles; his fat body is the container. He is burnished with red slip. There are black slip tattoo markings on one arm and black slip on the feet, suggesting shoes. His protruding lips part to show two full rows of teeth. He has a beak-like nose and peg-shaped eyes. The round, disc face is well integrated into the body of the vessel. The slab of his hair, or perhaps a headdress, was applied to the body. The opening of the vessel at the top of the head could be a topknot. The squat legs, rounded arms and bulging, peg eyes provide great presence and personality.