Tripod Vessel with Monkey Caryatides, 500 CE - 1000 CE
Terracotta
20
PF.3757
Also known as a 'chocolate pot', this vessel used to contain chocolate, which was an important part of ancient life. A tall neck and a slightly flared rim highlight the...
Also known as a "chocolate pot", this vessel used to contain chocolate, which was an important part of ancient life. A tall neck and a slightly flared rim highlight the small round bottom. There is no visible engraved or incised decoration on the vessel, which leaves the eye to roam and look at the three monkeys that hang onto the vessel and have attached themselves to the tripod legs. They have actually become a part of these rattling tripod legs becoming an integral part of the whole piece. The faces themselves are well defined with appliqué eyes and well-sculpted eyebrows and nose. Each has one hand on his head and the other on the tripod vessel itself. The whole idea that the artist has created is one of great ingenuity and creativity that abounds in every part of the vessel, giving pleasure and entertainment to those who look at it and admire the craftsmanship.
Literature
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