Valdivian Phase 3 Conjoined twins. Unslipped light tan ceramic. Rare example. Two
heads rising from the shoulders sharing a single body that tapers to a rounded stub.
Arms in front come together under the breast. Their faces are flat with eyes and
mouth represented by deep slits. The shoulder length coiffure forms a frame on three
sides of their face. The back of the heads displays elaborate fine incisions suggesting
individual hairs parted down the middle with hair running from within. The lower
back curves outwards slightly and is cut inwards sharply forming angular buttocks
and rendered more realistic by a vertical groove up the center. Below this, is a
perforated hole from back to front. Restored from three large sections. Scattered
dendrites and mineral deposits throughout. Measures 5.5"/13,97 cm. Santa Elena, Ecuador
Ca. 2300 B.C. - 2200 B.C.
Ex Private Florida collection. Acquired through inheritance 1980s.
Similar examples published in Ancient Ecuador - Culture, Clay and Creativity 3000
- 300 B.C. p 77, pls. 84, 86; example housed in Casa del Alabado Museum, Quito -
Ecuador.