Spout and Bridge Vessel in the Form of a Falcon

This vessel depicts a falcon, identified by the distinct green V-shaped eye markings. The falcon is frequently given feline attributes, as shown in the ears. This vessel features a bright shade of green not commonly found on Paracas ceramics. The back of the vessel contains a repeating motif of incised vencejos or swifts, a bird commonly associated with water and fertility. Earlier Paracas ceramics reflect a strong Chavín influence with an emphasis on fangs, pendant-shaped eyes, and the occurrence of the stirrup spout form. As the Paracas style evolved, the art reflected a gradual change in mythology and religious beliefs. The Chavín style of condors, eagles, and hawks are replaced by Paracas ceramics with foxes, swallows, and falcons.