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Feline-headed Serpent Tripod Bowl

Dateca. 600-900 AD

MediumRedware ceramic

Dimensions3 1/2 x 5 3/4 inches (8.9 x 14.6 cm)

CultureWari (Peru)

PeriodMiddle Horizon

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGift of Professor B. S. Monroe, transferred from University Collections, Olin Library

Terms

Perú
Ceramics
Wari
paint
Snakes
Cats

Object number69.181

Label CopyThe mixture of serpentine and feline shapes is not unusual in pre-Columbian art; "monsters" (also called "dragons") contain elements of reptiles and felines, although some also have wings indicating a bird-like (avian or eagle) element. Parts of other creatures may also be incorporated; such fantasy monsters are representative of a world which can only be reached through the use of hallucinogenic drugs.

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