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Spider Monkey Jug

       This Spider Monkey effigy jar was created by the Chimu Culture between 1300AD and 1500AD. The figure on the jar is thought to represent a spider monkey holding its baby but it may also be holding a human. It is difficult to distinguish between these two because of the stylized faces.

       The body of the jar is round and probably has been formed in a two piece mold along with the monkey. The neck of the jar was attached afterwards as cracks are appearing along the connection points.

       The blackish colour of the jar is produced through a firing technique that reduces the oxygen in the kiln. The surface of the jar has been polished using a technique of burnishing after it was fired.

Cultural Affiliation

       The Chimu culture existed from 1100 AD to 1470 AD. It grew out of the collapse of the Wari Empire. They controlled much of the coastal areas of Northern Peru. The Chimu defended their empire by building fortresses on the frontiers but were conquered by the Incas in 1470 AD. They only survived in the historical accounts of the Inca region.

       Chimu pottery was primarily mass-produced through the use of molds and has a characteristic black colour. Decoration was usually done through a molded reliefs and surface polishing.       

       Some parts of the monkey were attached after the piece was removed from the mold. The arms that reach out to the baby would have to be attaached afterwards because they are to small to produce in the mold. 

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