Valdivia/Chorrera stone effigy mortar, ca, 1500-500 B.C.

the massive stylized feline with squared snout incised with teeth and parted jaws, small circular eyes, and thick curled tail at the back, with squared recessed area on the back; in deep speckled green-black stone.

Arturo Vinueza Collection, acquired before 1975

The tail has been broken and reglued at join to the body, there are abrasive losses to the top right of the head, small area of loss on the front PL corner of the back.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Cf. Valdez and Veintimilla (1992:cat. no. 10), for the massive feline type.

Stone effigy mortars were used for ceremonial hallucinogenic rituals. Stone objects are somewhat rare in Ecuadorian prehistory, and appear in the late Valdivia period; similar stone mortars are present in the Chavin region of highland Peru.