Chancay

In central Peru, a distinctive type of pottery made by the Chancay people between 1000-1500 AD (from Late Intermediate Period). It is black-on-white with parallel or checkered design, sometimes with biomorphic figures or painted in soft colors. The most common forms were tall, two-handled, egg-shaped collared jars; bowls and beakers with slightly bowed sides; and large figurines. The pottery is associated with large effigy figurines, dolls, and lacelike textiles. Chancay weaving was considered excellent.

Cultural entity which arose in the Late Intermediate Period in the northern area of the Peruvian central coast. Found in the Huara, Chancay, Ancon and Chillon valleys, it is characterized especially by a unique black-on-white pottery style. It has a white (often yellowish) slip and black line geometric decoration, usually of parallel lines or chequered design, which is sometimes augmented by small applique biomorphic figures. The most common forms were tall, two-handled collared jars and large figurines. Regional expressions such as Chancay came about in the political vacuum left after the decline of Huari and Tiahuanaco.