Monumental Shipibo Folk Art Polychrome Geometric Wood-Fired Vessel

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Monumental Shipibo-Conibo Polychrome Geometric Wood-Fired Vessel

Culture: Shipibo-Conibo (Ucayali River Basin, Peruvian Amazon)
Dimensions: 16 in. diameter x 8 in. … Read more Monumental Shipibo-Conibo Polychrome Geometric Wood-Fired Vessel

Culture: Shipibo-Conibo (Ucayali River Basin, Peruvian Amazon)
Dimensions: 16 in. diameter x 8 in. height
Medium: Hand-coiled earthenware, wood-fired, natural pigments

This rare, monumental-scale ceramic vessel exemplifies the artistic traditions of the Shipibo-Conibo people of the central Peruvian Amazon. Renowned for their intricate geometric designs—believed to be visual representations of cosmic or auditory patterns—the Shipibo-Conibo produce ceramics that are both utilitarian and deeply spiritual in nature.

The vessel features a finely hand-painted polychrome motif along the upper register, characteristic of Shipibo cosmological iconography. These repeating geometric patterns are traditionally passed down through generations and are closely tied to the community’s shamanic practices, often associated with visions encountered during ayahuasca ceremonies.

Wood-fired in an open pit, the vessel bears natural smoke marks and patination, especially near its base—testament to traditional firing techniques. The rim shows expected wear consistent with age and use, yet the piece remains in very good overall condition. Notably, its size is exceptional; vessels of this scale are exceedingly rare in both ethnographic collections and the art market.

For further condition details, please consult the accompanying images. See less