**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, northern Peru, Moche culture, Phase III, ca. 400 to 600 CE. A very finely crafted pottery stirrup jar - an early version of a beer jar used to hold chicha - molded with a scene on each side of a battle to the death. On one side a warrior holds a long staff or spear in his right hand as he lands a punch to the head of the figure on the right. On the reverse, the figure on the right is holding a mace on a long wooden haft while the figure on the left lands a blow to the head just under the headdress which appears to be flying off. The Moche were amazing artisans and especially world-class potters who could represent the most fearsome battles along with touching scenes of family and nature. Size: 6.5" W x 10.25" H (16.5 cm x 26 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: ex Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired August 5, 2011; ex Senatus Consulto, Fredriksberg, Denmark; ex private important Danish collection

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#164262

Minor chips to base, 2 small TL holes done during testing (can easily be filled), spout broken and reattached with break visible on one side, and surface slightly darkened from earthen deposits.