Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A little bit terrifying - and also a little bit comical - example of one of the classic forms of pre-Columbian pottery - the Moche stirrup vessel, in the form of an anthropomorphic body with a handle and spout rising from the top to create a ceremonial drinking vessel. This particular vessel depicts Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture. He bears the identifying marks of the god, with feline fangs extending from his fierce mouth and a headdress featuring ocean waves and serpent heads. A vessel like this would most likely have been created for a member of the elite and placed in his tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate wealth as he began his journey into the afterlife. Size: 5.4" L x 6" W x 7.2" H (13.7 cm x 15.2 cm x 18.3 cm)

Provenance: private S.W. collection, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#125146

Spout/handle has been repaired in two places. Stable crack on spout, only visible from inside of it. Iconography is in nice condition with good remaining pigment. Some light root marks on surface.