Pre-Columbian, northern Peru, Moche II, ca. 300 CE. A superb example of the pottery portrait vessels of the Moche culture presenting a flat base and inward-curved rim and adorned in hues of russet, black, and cream. The fascinating visage gazes forth from large, almond-shaped eyes beneath a straight brow and above a prominent nose and naturalistic mouth, all flanked by a pair of sizeable ears fit with annular earspools. A helmet-like headdress caps the ancient figure, while the face is adorned by black face paint, indicating that he is likely a warrior. The Moche are perhaps the only ancient culture in the Americas that produced such portrait vessels. Some of these vessels have allowed scholars to follow the age and rank of individuals solely via their depictions on the pottery. These individuals lived and in their own way were rock stars of the day. This pottery kero was likely used for drinking chicha. Size: 6.2" in diameter x 5.3" H (15.7 cm x 13.5 cm)

Provenance: private New York, USA collection; ex-Harmer Rooke, May 1994

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#165539

Collection label on base. Repair to rim with restoration. Some light abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice pigment.