Effigy vessel in form of Anthropomorphic Mythical Being,

80–260 CE

More commonly rendered in two dimensions painted on the surfaces of vessels, this object presents a modeled version of the so-called Anthropomorphic Mythical Being (AMB) or, as some have suggested, a shaman transforming into this entity or an impersonator in the deity's costume. The most recognizable and consistent trait of the AMB is the white whisker-like motif surrounding the mouth. In this case, the figure's body is avian, as is the white motif on the front of the figure's head. Polycrhome slip in several hues, a hallmark of Nasca pottery, presents trophy heads on the wings and tail, features also commonly associated with the AMB. He carries a spearthrower. Proulx suggests this character is the embodiment of natural forces, although the clear references to decapitation suggest possible association with ritual violence and possibly warfare. Such imagery of decapitation, however, appears with great frequency in across time and space in Andean art - it may have other symbolic meanings we have not yet discovered.