Shamanic pendant vase, Quimbaya culture, Colombia circa 500-1500 AD.

Quimbaya Culture, Colombia, Central Cauca Valley. Circa 500-1500 AD. Vase jar in the shape of a seated anthropomorphic figure, the top of the head wide open, creating the opening of the container. The figure is depicted sitting. It has arms modelled in slight relief, folded forward, with the hands delicately meeting on its abdomen (a classic gesture of devotion or contemplation). On its belly and legs, there is a superb geometric decoration painted in black on an orange-red background. This diamond pattern containing cross shapes or stylised motifs (sometimes associated with the representation of the crocodile or the geometric frog) is typical of the decorative style of this region. The presence of perforations in the ears indicates that the object was worn as a pendant serving as an amulet or portable offering vessel. These small pots were often placed in shaft tombs (huacas) as offerings to accompany the deceased in the afterlife. Its small size suggests it could be used to store precious substances, such as body paint pigments, scented oils, or lime (used to release active principles when chewing coca leaves during shamanic ceremonies). Dimensions 9.5 X 8 X 7.5 cm. Provenance: - Private collection from the south of France. A certificate of authenticity will be provided to the buyer. Taxes and customs duties are included in the shipping costs for international shipments.