Cupisnique Cat Vessel - Peru

Appearing in low relief, feline features distinguish this handsome vessel. Walter Jose Acosta takes his inspiration from Peru's ancient Cupisnique culture, identified by archeologist Rafael Larco Hoyle in the 1940s. Signed and crafted by hand in ceramic, the vase reveals an artistic style shared with the Chavin culture.

Born in the Huambo province in the Amazon region of Peru, Acosta attended the School of Fine Arts as a teenager.  There he learn about design and techniques for creating Pre-Columbian replicas. 

The message Walter Jose Acosta want his art to convey is that “our ancestors crafted beautiful and complex pieces with only their hands as tools, without the kind of technology we have nowadays. Through their work, they expressed all that they saw and wondered about from their environment, their thoughts, and beliefs. Clay was their medium. I feel that Peruvian ceramic art is a way to communicate with our ancestors and to keep them alive for the coming generations.”

Pottery from the Cupisnique civilization is featured in Dumbarton Oaks' exhibition A Beautiful Dichotomy; Contrasting Pre-Columbian Peruvian Ceramics.

 For decorative use only.

Weight:  1.9 lbs

Dimensions:  8.75" H x 5.25" W x 5" D