Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A little bit terrifying - and also a little bit comical - example of one of the classic forms of pre-Columbian pottery - the Moche stirrup vessel, in the form of an anthropomorphic body with a handle and spout rising from the top to create a ceremonial drinking vessel - ala canteen. This particular vessel depicts Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture. He bears the identifying marks of the god, with feline fangs extending from his fierce mouth and a headdress featuring twin feline heads. Built into the base are holes with a false bottom thatonce held rattling balls.A vessel like this would most likely have been created for a member of the elite and placed in his tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate wealth as he began his journey into the afterlife. Size: 7" W x 10.5" H (17.8 cm x 26.7 cm)

Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA acquired before 2000

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#165428

Large spall on base, chip to nose of one feline head, other small chips and wear to pigment as shown, else intact and quite fine.