Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche 4, Classic Period, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A monumental vase depicting a nude royal sacrificial prisoner of war sitting cross legged, wearing an owl head on his head ornament as he represents a King-Priest. In the Pre-Columbian world, the owl was understood to be a messenger to the afterlife, as this nocturnal bird of prey has the ability to see through darkness! The prisoner's hands are tied behind his back, and he has a rope tied around his neck that mysteriously turns into a snake and bites his penis! Note how his face shows an expression of utter resignation. On his chin are lines of scarification, and his face is painted a cream color representing the Pre-Columbian concept of duality. A dramatic piece! Size: 7.5" W x 12.5" H (19 cm x 31.8 cm)

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex Dr. Fisher private museum, Germany

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#123350

  • Condition: Slight repairs to rim, otherwise intact.

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May 25, 2017 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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