Goblet or Kero cup
600-1000
Wari
Arts of the Americas
These two ceramic vessels convey the importance of llamas among the ancient Andean cultures. The Lambayeque example representing a man on a llama is unusual, since llamas are normally used as pack animals and are only employed as mounts by merchants during river crossings. Perhaps this vessel represents such a merchant.
The Wari ceremonial cup also depicts a domesticated llama. The gold disc attached to the rope around its neck underscores the animal’s value and ritual importance.
The Wari ceremonial cup also depicts a domesticated llama. The gold disc attached to the rope around its neck underscores the animal’s value and ritual importance.
- Maker/Artist
- Wari
- Classification
- Vessel
- Formatted Medium
- Ceramic, pigment
- Locations
- Place found: Tiahuanaco, Bolivia
- Period
- Pre-Spanish
- Dimensions
- 7 1/8 x 5 7/8 x 6 in. (18.1 x 14.9 x 15.2 cm)
- Departments
- Arts of the Americas
- Accession Number
- 44.98
- Credit Line
- Henry L. Batterman Fund
- Rights Statement
- Creative Commons-BY
- Museum Location
- This item is not on view
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