Andeans refer to this style of vessel as raqui because of its shape and function. Raqui vary greatly in size, from miniatures used as offerings to vessels as large as six feet tall used to brew chicha, an alcoholic drink made from corn and consumed during ceremonial gatherings. This raqui was used to brew chicha. To aid fermentation, the lower half of this vessel was buried in Mother Earth. Ropes fastened to the lugs would have enabled an individual to carry the vessel on his or her back.

Infinity of Nations: Art and History in the Collections of the National Museum of the American Indian
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