Description:

Pre-Columbian, Moche, Phase IV, North Coast Peru, ca. 400 CE - 500 CE. This vessel 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, impeccable technique! 10-1/2"H x 5-1/2"D

Provenance: Ex Splendors of the World Gallery

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.

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  • Condition: Minor surface wear. Else intact and near choice.

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October 24, 2014 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000