**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, Phase IV, ca. 450 to 650 CE. A hand-built, two chambered vessel of a flat-bottomed form with a pair of roughly spherical chambers connected via a central seam. Highly burnished and painted with hues of cream and russet, the vessel presents with a cylindrical spout rising from the back chamber as well as a charming bird seated atop the frontal chamber; a stirrup-shaped handle connects the two. Red stripes and spots adorn the bird in minimalist motifs and, along with its circular eyes and conical beak, make for a pleasing presentation. A petite hole beneath the bird's neck emits a high-pitched whistling sound when air is blown into the spout. Size: 5.75" L x 3.125" W x 5.8" H (14.6 cm x 7.9 cm x 14.7 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-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#165443

Minor abrasions and fading to pigment, with small chips to spout rim, otherwise intact and very good. Great remains of white and red pigment throughout. Whistle still creates a high-pitched sound when air is blown into the spout. TL drill holes beneath base and behind handle terminal connected to bird's wings.