Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast of Peru, Moche, Phase IV, ca. 400 to 650 CE. A hand-built pottery vessel that manifests the technique and artistry of the Moche artisans of ancient Peru. Bichrome in color scheme, the vessel is decorated with a hand-painted depiction of a crab or lobster in red on cream ground. In actuality this is Ai Apec who has transformed himself into this sea creature. Ai Apec is the Moche god of the underworld and takes on many forms. In this example he has assumed the form of a crab, abstract yet representational at the same time. Ai Apec has transitioned from deity to crustacean! Remarkable artistry, rich iconography, and impeccable technique! Size: 5.5" W x 10.6" H (14 cm x 26.9 cm)

Provenance: ex-Splendors of the World, Haiku, Hawaii, USA, before 2010; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, acquired in the 1950s to 1960s

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#101432

  • Condition: Minor abrasions, light fading to pigment, and small nick on stirrup, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to painted decorations.

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September 8, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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
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