Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 200 to 600 CE. A fabulous bichrome terracotta, mold-made stirrup vessel depicting an owl perched atop what may be interpreted as a mountain with five peaks. In Moche ceramics such scenes usually depict a deity atop the tallest of the five peaks; however, this particular vessel evokes additional layers of meaning, because the "mountain" body of the vessel also resembles the body of a large bird of prey, perhaps a condor. As for the owl perched atop the pinnacle, the Moche generally associated owls with medicine, wisdom, as well as magic of the underworld. A very special piece, replete with impressive artistry and intriguing iconography. Size: 9" H (22.9 cm)

Provenance: ex-Barakat Gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, acquired prior to 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#153767

  • Condition: Professionally repaired from multiple pieces with restoration over the break lines. Surface wear with abraded areas and scuffs, nicks to the rim of the spout, owl's ears, nose, wings, and base of the vessel commensurate with age. Scattered deposits and nice burnishing marks. Old collection label on base.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

May 21, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000