Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 BCE to 100 CE. An impressively rendered ceramic vessel depicting Ai Apaec, the supreme deity of the Moche peoples, standing before or perhaps emerging from the mountainous Andes with both hands in resolutely held before him, all in a stunning white on red bichrome finish. This deity was revered as the supreme creator god (in fact, the word Aiapaec means "doer" in Mochica) whose throne is usually positioned upon a high mountain as he was believed to be the son of the mountain god. While the "creator" he was simultaneously regarded as a fierce deity also called the Decapitator or the Headsman. Here he is depicted with some of his characteristic traits and attributes including an anthropomorphic face with a feline/jaguar mouth replete with fangs, two slithering snakes to either side, perhaps emerging from his hair or head, a grand helmet tied above his grand collar, and large, fanciful round ear ornaments. He wears a polka dotted garment that most likely represents a dotted jaguar pelt. It bears repeating that since Ai Apaec was believed to be a sky god and son of the mountain god worshipped by the indigenous Mochica of the Andes, in this example, the conical forms that Ai Apaec emerges from represent the mountainous terrain of the Andes. A fabulous example that boasts expert technique and artistry as well as extensive iconographical details. Size: 7" W x 9.125" H (17.8 cm x 23.2 cm)

Provenance: Ex-California Museum of Ancient Art

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#115258

Small chip on rim and paint on helmet has faded a bit. Otherwise intact and excellent.