Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Ca 300 to 100 BC. Fine pottery vessel showing a transition between the Salinar, the last remnants of the Chavin, and the newly-emerging Moche. With heavy spout and mushroom tip, in the form of a seated man holding a jar on his back. He is painted in yellow pigment on his face, on his headdress and across his midsection. The Moche artisans were remarkably adept at bringing clay to life! Known for creating pottery representing actual individuals, the pieces can be remarkably realistic and specific, representing individuals of all classes from worker to elite. The Moche worldview was that of a hierarchical culture, a very ordered place where everyone understood his/her role in society. Moche vessels typically feature specific individuals dressed and carrying accouterments to indicate their role in society. Here we have a seated individual carrying an olla on his shoulder. He shows a calm, almost solemn expression, an elaborate coiffure with plaited braid and simple clothing. Perhaps he is a religious practitioner engaged in a ritualistic ceremony. The exquisite, naturalistically rendered facial visage, intricate delineations of his facial tattooing and hairstyle are the creative work of an expert sculptor. A nice, strong vessel! 9"H x 5-1/2"D. 9"T x 4-1/2"W x 5-1/2"D

Provenance: Ex-Catherine Sobreto collection, acquired in 1967.

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The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell

Invisibly repaired from about six pieces but appears near choice!