Encyclopedia of the Incas

and bar motif, flanked on either side by the genealogical tree motif (formerly
described as the fern pattern) (Rowe’s Cuzco Polychrome A). The second and
third formats involve the use of a single row of rhombuses centered on the front
of the vessel, although these differ in terms of the orientation of the motif (both
were classified by Rowe as “Cuzco Polychrome B”). When depicted
horizontally, the band of rhombuses comprises a stand-alone panel; in the
vertical position, the design element is flanked by horizontal registers of pendant
triangles or the tree motif. The functional attributes of the aríbalo, together with
ethnohistoric and ethnographic evidence, indicate that it was likely used for the
storage and serving of chicha (maize beer; see Cuisine).
The second category in Meyers’s typology, consisting of narrow-necked, flat-
bottomed jars, includes four different vessel forms. As a group, they are
distinguished from the aríbalo by their flat (as opposed to conical) bases and
their generally smaller sizes. The morphological features of the vessels in this
category suggest that they likely served as containers for liquids, though given
their relative dearth outside the imperial heartland, it may be that access to or use
of these was more restricted.
The next category of wide-necked jars with one or two strap handles is also
relatively rare. The larger sizes and morphological attributes of the two pitcher-
like forms in this category suggest possible decanting or serving functions. The
two vessel types included in Meyers’s fourth category of wide-mouthed, conical-
based pots (Forms 8 and 9) are also primarily known from the heartland. The
Form 8 vessel, sometimes referred to as an urpu, often exhibits the same type of
design formats and motifs found on the aríbalo. Both of the wide-mouthed
vessel forms are thought to be associated with food processing activities,
including fermentation and boiling.
The next two vessels in the typology are the pedestal-base pot (Form 10) and
the straight-sided bowl (Form 11). These constitute the third and fourth most
common forms in the Inca assemblage, respectively. The pedestal-base pot,
which often has a fitted lid, is the only common vessel type in the imperial
repertoire that lacks polychrome decoration. This form is found in significantly
higher frequencies in the provinces and is generally considered to have served as
a portable cooking vessel. The two-handled, flat-bottom bowl (Form 11)
commonly exhibits polychrome decoration and comes in a variety of sizes. The
attributes of this vessel suggest a likely serving function.
The two vessels included in Meyers’s sixth category are plate forms. While the
deep (Form 12) plate is known principally from the Cuzco area, the shallow