Short Beaker Depicting Human Head c. 180 - 500

This short beaker depicting a human head was made by the Nazca people out of skillfully painted ceramic. Like all pottery, this beaker began as humble clay. The forming process involved shaping and firing, work done either by hand or with simple tools like molds. The painting is remarkably assured, achieved through the use of fine brushes made of animal hair, and pigments derived from minerals. This object is more than just functional. It is a testament to the artistic specialization present in Nazca society. The maker would have enjoyed a certain status, and his or her skill would have been honed by repetition. Such a beautiful, carefully made object prompts us to consider the place of craft in everyday life, and reminds us that artistry and utility have always been closely linked.