Whistling Jaguar – Vicus 4th Century – Thermoluminescence Certificate -

Polychrome Ceramic Whistling Vase from Vicus Culture, Peru, Pre-Columbian period, circa 4th century AD.
The Thermoluminescence Certificate of 22-12-1990 from the Ralf Kotalla Laboratory indicates a dating between 1500 and 2200 years ago, or circa 1600 years ago (see photos of the certificate). So between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century AD. Renowned laboratory still in operation (see website).

Ceramic vase modeled by hand, without a mold, in the shape of a Jaguar, red ochre color with black spots.
It rests on four feet and has large fangs curved upwards.
A handle opening onto an orifice on the back as well as numerous holes in the upper part of the body allow different whistling sounds to be produced when blown into.

In ancient Peru, the jaguar was frequently represented fighting the snake of death.
This type of Whistling Vase was both religious and funerary. It allowed the emitting of a whistling sound similar to the song of birds, a characteristic of the pre-Hispanic Andes where ceremonies were marked by songs and dances. It could also be placed in a tomb to help the deceased on the perilous paths of the Afterlife.

The Vicus evolved in the north of present-day Peru, near the border with Ecuador, from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD, nearly 1,500 years before the Incas. A civilization that remained unknown for a long time because it was confused with the Mochica culture, it was only identified in the 1960s.

It measures 19cm in height by 16cm in length and 9cm in thickness.
Two fangs are missing from the jaw (see photos) otherwise it is in excellent condition.

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