Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. This is a gorgeous intact example of one of the classic forms of pre-Columbian pottery - the Moche stirrup vessel, using the shape of a seated human body and attaching a handle to create a ceremonial drinking vessel. A vessel like this would most likely have been created for a member of the elite and placed in their tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate their wealth as they began their journey into the afterlife. This particular vessel depicts Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture. He has a fierce grimace and holds aloft a severed head and a bag, grasped tightly in his fists. The head has a horrified, open-mouthed countenance. Size: 6" L x 5.7" W x 8" H (15.2 cm x 14.5 cm x 20.3 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Virgina collection, Ex Washington D.C. collection, Ex Arte Primitivo Gallery

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#117905

Tiny chip to rim; much pigment remaining.