Blackware Vessel in the Form of a Llama Possibly 1200 - 1450

Curator: At the Art Institute of Chicago, we have this striking ceramic artwork: a Blackware Vessel in the Form of a Llama, crafted sometime between 1200 and 1450 by the Chimú culture. Editor: Well, that’s immediately charming, isn’t it? It’s got this solemn, almost watchful expression… Like it's seen some things, you know? Curator: The Chimú, based in what is now coastal Peru, were incredible artisans. This vessel provides a glimpse into their sophisticated understanding of form and function. Blackware pottery like this was achieved through a unique firing process. The almost metallic-looking finish has survived the centuries remarkably well, don’t you think? Editor: Absolutely, it's ghostly. The form itself feels both stylized and realistic. The vessel's bulbous body makes the llama appear serene. Plus that zig-zag design along its torso... does that have some significance, or is that embellishment? Curator: We believe the zig-zag could be a symbolic reference to mountains or possibly even lightning, reflecting the Chimú’s reverence for the natural world. The llama was central to Andean life, used for transportation, wool, and even sacrifice, which is reflected in their artistry and social customs. What do you feel when you view something made so long ago for another people? Editor: A quiet admiration, really. The craftsmanship is beautiful, the vessel is also functional and culturally relevant. These kinds of objects are really an intersection where art meets ritual meets daily life. How fantastic it is for us to see the connections through the span of time. Curator: It reminds us that objects can tell us much about what survives. So much of history involves trying to connect with daily life so that the rituals, skills, and world view are more tangible to our contemporary eyes. It enriches the meaning of what art is for me. Editor: Indeed. What a thoughtful and thought-provoking object to carry with us.