Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, Phase IV, ca. 500 to 700 CE. A fascinating black stirrup vessel depicting the mythical episode of the hero deity, Ai Apaec, fighting a sea monster in low relief. The vessel is mold made with the humanoid figure of Ai Apaec with jaguar fangs and a bird headdress, standing to the left and an anthropomorphic figure with a monstrous fish head stands to the left. A rope grasped in Ai Apaecs hand seems to be emerging from the monster's open maw. Ai Apaec is a sacred figure of Moche lore, a hero that journeys to different worlds, fighting monsters and overcoming obstacles to obtain supernatural powers and gifts. In one tale he goes to the sea and confronts a blowfish and other monsters in the watery depths, and in some depictions, Ai Apaec is fishing, having hooked a fish on a line. Size: 6.25" W x 8.7" H (15.9 cm x 22.1 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance: Ex-Washington, USA collection, acquired in the 1980's

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#109693

  • Condition: Loss to top of spout, else excellent. Nice luster throughout. Tl hole on base and second Tl hole inside spout.

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March 19, 2023 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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