Jar, wide-mouthed, in the form of a double-headed snake. Deep, flaring neck with a band of puma heads below the rim. Painted in polychrome. Rim chipped.

Jar, 11th-14th century

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The double-headed snake is a common image throughout ancient traditional beliefs, from the Pacific Coast to the Andes. In this example, the jaguar appears around the neck of the vase in profile, and complements the serpent imagery. Both the snake and the jaguar were encountered in sacred journeys, and were important symbols of shamanic visions and power. This object successfully unites two sacred animals important to traditional beliefs.

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Details
Title
Jar
Role
Artist
Accession Number
46.3.7
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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Jar, wide-mouthed, in the form of a double-headed snake. Deep, flaring neck with a band of puma heads below the rim. Painted in polychrome. Rim chipped.