In an elegant, linear fashion appealing to modern tastes, this Ancient Paracas vessel depicts a feline deity. Atop the spout is a stylized eagle. Cat gods, especially the jaguar, are...
In an elegant, linear fashion appealing to modern tastes, this Ancient Paracas vessel depicts a feline deity. Atop the spout is a stylized eagle. Cat gods, especially the jaguar, are a favorite motif in Peruvian art. Buried in tombs, vessels such as this were probably meant to combat the demons of the underworld, especially the serpent of death. This bold, abstract cat, rendered in rich colors, still seems to take his duties seriously. Though his looks are fierce, his intentions are benevolent. Even in a world no longer sees him as a God, he continues to command our respect.