Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, late Moche to early Wari (Huari) culture, ca. 700 to 1000 CE. A fascinating pottery stirrup vessel in the form of a musician figure clasping a conch shell trumpet in his hands, staring intensely forward with the characteristic Moche diamond shaped eyes. The umber surface is painted with intricate white patterning - abstract zoomorphs at his shoulders, and a pouch is slung over his back. The conch shell was a significant life-giving force from the ocean that the Moche venerated and plays a role in the mythical adventures of their deity, Ai Apaec. In one tale, Ai Apaec fights a monster in the form of a strombus (conch) shell at the bottom of the ocean. Ai Apaec is triumphant and offers the empty shell to the owl god of night. Conch trumpets were often played during ceremonies to venerate Ai Apaec and other deities. Size: 8" L x 4" W x 7.5" H (20.3 cm x 10.2 cm x 19 cm)

For a similar example, please see the Art Institute of Chicago's website, reference number: 1955.2304.

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 will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance:private Superior, Colorado, USA collection acquired at Paris art market before 2000

#177801

Intact and excellent. Some abrasions and chips to nose and stirrup rim. Chipping and fading to pigments, but overall great remains throughout. TL hole on base and second Tl hole on underside of handle. Great preservation to motifs and pigments.