Chavin Carved Stone Jarlet - 10th to 5th Century BCE | Pre-Columbian Ritual Jaguar Head

Experience the mystique of the ancient Chavin culture with this skillfully carved stone jarlet, a reflection of their intricate jaguar motifs and ritualistic practices. Dating from 900 BCE to 500 BCE, this artifact is a tangible connection to Peru's early civilization and their enigmatic ceremonies.

Unearth the depths of the Chavin civilization with this extraordinary stone jarlet, carved by the hands of an ancient Andean artisan between 900 BCE and 500 BCE. This jarlet, measuring 46mm in width and 41mm in height, is sculpted from stone with a sumptuous red hue, capturing the essence of the jaguar—a central figure in Chavin iconography.

The jarlet's surface features a complex, abstract depiction of a jaguar's head, complete with elongated nostril whiskers that elegantly frame the face, an art form indicative of the Chavin's symbolic repertoire. The intricate spotted pattern pecked into the stone's sides and back echoes the jaguar's distinctive pelt, showcasing the Chavin's reverence for this powerful creature, often associated with shamanic transformation and the spirit world.

Given its petite size, this vessel likely served a significant purpose in ritual practices, potentially holding hallucinogenic substances that facilitated spiritual journeys during sacred ceremonies. Minor wear to the surface details does not detract from its overall beauty, with the jarlet's form and smoothness remarkably preserved.

Formerly a cherished item within the Pepe Schaefer collection, this jarlet was a gift from Bosta Seminarao and has been in the United States since at least 1955, carrying with it the legacy of a civilization steeped in ritual and mysticism.