Pre-Columbian Chorrera Effigy Jar Ecuador 1000–300 BCE Shamanic Ritual
This object comes from a long-held private collection formed over decades of collecting. The seller has been an eBay member since 2015 as a buyer and only recently began releasing selected pieces, including this one.
This rare Pre-Columbian effigy jar originates from the Chorrera culture of coastal Ecuador. The vessel features a modeled human figure in a crouching posture, with an expressive face emerging at the top and arms curving around the body. The jar's open mouth serves as both the functional spout and a symbolic conduit—likely representing ritual speech, shamanic trance, or libation offering.
Decorated in red and black mineral slip over a burnished reddish surface, the vessel exhibits finely applied geometric motifs. UV testing confirms no modern pigments or synthetic binders. The surface has developed a complex natural patina with mineral accretions, supporting its burial history and authenticity.
This is not a tourist replica or decorative piece. It is a genuine Pre-Columbian artifact that encapsulates the spiritual and aesthetic vocabulary of early Ecuadorian cultures. Comparable examples are held in the Museo Nacional del Ecuador and other major South American collections.
dated to approximately 1000–300 BCE
Height (max): 3.5 in (8.9 cm)
Width (max): 3.25 in (8.3 cm)
Weight: 150.3 grams
Culture: Chorrera
Region: Coastal Ecuador
Date: 1000–300 BCE
Function: Shamanic or funerary effigy vessel
Iconography: The open mouth and fetal-like posture may reference rebirth, trance states, or vocal ritual. This form is iconographically unique to early Ecuadorian ceremonial ceramics.
Provenance statement:
This item was part of a 1950’ collection of pre-Colombian and Asian art. Together with few other artifacts it entered my collection in 1989.
Disclaimer
This item is offered as an antique ethnographic artifact and is not represented as contemporary Native American-made under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.
Guarantee
This item was carefully researched, appraised and authenticated. It is described and photographed as accurate as I can. The description and condition report are guaranteed to match the item condition. Please review photos as they form part of the description.
Returns & Inspection
A 14-day inspection period is provided from the date of delivery to allow in-person evaluation of the piece, for domestic sell only.
Returns are accepted within this period provided the item is returned in the same condition in which it was received.
Please contact me before retuning for coordinating the return with my signature safely.
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If the reason for return is a damage, please document the damage and package condition for insurance purposes.
Returns not accepted for international sells. Please review description and images carefully or contact prior to purchase.”
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