Pre-Columbian, north coast of Peru, Moche, Phase IV, 450 to 600 CE. A fierce portrait vessel depicting a warrior with veristic facial detailing including a protruding nose, bulging cheeks, wide eyes, and a snarled mouth with adjacent tissue scaring. This harrowing portrayal would have been the portrait of a living Moche warrior of the time, an intriguing point due to the extensive tissue damage detailed through curvilinear incisions to the side of his mouth. Was this an injury endured in battle? The question begs. His face is painted in a traditional manner with brown pigment accented by a dark red hue which delineates both sides of his face - a face dressed for battle. Lastly the warrior bares traditional head wear with a large strap handle and conical spout attached atop. A striking example with eccentric detailing that sheds light into the ferocity of Moche’s warrior class and the skilled hand of their artisans. A feast for the eyes! Size: 7" W x 11" H (17.8 cm x 27.9 cm)

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

Provenance: ex-private Drimmer collection, Florida, USA, before 1965

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#165149

Strap handle has been repaired from two pieces by adhesive. Minor hairline fissure on spout's rim. Light abrasions to painted surface towards the base on verso side. TL drill holes on the bottom of the vessel and back of the handle. Overall surface wear commensurate with age. Otherwise in great overall condition, with excellent luster, and most of its original painted motif in exemplary form. Inventory label and numbering in white pigment on the bottom.