Standing Masked Shaman, 300 BCE - 500 CE
Terracotta
18
PF.4162
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The Shaman was an essential part of the everyday running of the ancient community. As protector and healer, the Shaman had rare and special powers that were greatly respected as...
The Shaman was an essential part of the everyday running of the ancient community. As protector and healer, the Shaman had rare and special powers that were greatly respected as well as protected. This particular vessel shows the Shaman with a jaguar mask on his head, hiding his identity and evoking the spiritual world. It is this part of the work which requires the most attention, therefore the reason for the tremendous detail. In his hands he holds his chest, suggesting that he is pigeon-chested. Though completely nude, his body is decorated with geometric incisions, helping to balance the designs between the elaborate face and the simple body structure. As a complete body of work, the artist has successfully created a spiritually powerful piece.
Literature
V22