Drinking Vessel (Kero) with Floral and Animal Motifs Possibly 1450 - 1532

This wooden kero, crafted by the Inca, is adorned with motifs of life and nature. Observe the plants and animals—each element is part of a visual language reflecting the Inca's deep connection to the cosmos and natural world. The imagery here is not merely decorative. Notice how the plant motifs wrap around the base, echoing similar designs found in ancient Andean textiles. One cannot help but recall the Minoan frescoes with their fluid depictions of nature, mirroring a timeless human desire to capture life's essence. The symbolic weight of this cup resonates with me, a vessel from which to drink the collective memories of humanity. These forms, passed down through generations, hint at a continuous, cyclical progression of symbols resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings across cultures. This kero serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of images to connect us to our shared past.