Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 300 to 400 CE. A striking example of one of the classic forms of pre-Columbian pottery - the Moche stirrup vessel. It is mold-made and bi-chrome, with cream-on-red depicting Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche people. The god is presented with his characteristically wild feline fangs, a grimace seen in the bulge between the eyes, heavy brows, and large half-circle eyeballs. He has an expressive countenance delineated in low to high relief, demonstrating the skill of the artist who made the piece. Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture, was seen as a guardian of all food sources. Size: 6.45" W x 9.4" H (16.4 cm x 23.9 cm)

The class of artisans and potters in Moche urban centers created this vessel for a member of the elite. It was placed in that person's tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate wealth as he or she began his or her journey into the afterlife.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection, begun in 1966; ex-Sotheby's, New York, USA, November 1993, Lot 168

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#151390

  • Condition: The spout has been expertly restored. Also a small chip on the foot has been repaired. Otherwise in great condition with nice deposits and root marks.

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July 9, 2020 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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