Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 300 to 800 CE. A superb example of a portrait vessel featuring the head of a lord or warrior. He has a strong wild-eyed gaze and a prominent septum piercing that is hollow, and the headcap is resist painted with patterning that would have been seen in their textiles. The Moche were among the only ancient cultures in the Americas to produce such "portrait" vessels, although it is unclear if all resembled specific individuals or imaginative yet realistic renderings by the artisans. Regardless, the sculptor's intent was to present a lifelike depiction - perhaps a representation of a decapitated head! Although a violent death for enemies, decapitation and sacrifice was a ritualistic event regarded as an honor for the elite and warriors, which played an important role for the transition to the afterlife. Offerings of humans or human effigies, such as this vessel, may have been a vital part of funerary practices. Size: 6" Diameter x 8.5" H (15.2 cm x 21.6 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report is available to the buyer upon request.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#173393

Surface wear, chips to rim and ears, otherwise intact and excellent. Some fading to pigments and nice firing clouds. Tl hole in base and second Tl hole in right ear verso. Earthen deposits inside vessel.