Inca Ceremonial Vessel 1470-1532

This ceramic paqcha, or ritual vessel, was used to make offerings of fermented maize beer to Pachamama (Mother Earth).  The liquid was poured into the llama's head and then flowed down an interior chamber to the ground below.  (Brooklyn Museum)

Inca Tapestry Panel 600-1000

Judy Chicago - The Dinner Party

Judy Chicago's The Dinner Party is a monumental work of art, triangular in configuration, that employs numerous media, including ceramics, china-painting, and an array of needle and fiber techniques, to honor the history of women in Western Civilization. An immense open table covered with fine white cloths is set with thirty-nine place settings, thirteen on a side, each commemorating a goddess, historical figure, or important woman. The table rests upon an immense porcelain floor comprised of 2304 hand-cast, gilded and lustred tiles on which are inscribed the names of 999 other important women. These  names are grouped around the place settings to symbolize the long traditions of women’s achievements.



( Click here to see some of my favorite place settings... )