Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche III to IV, ca. 200 to 500 CE. A redware jar in the form of a captured, bound, and very angry prisoner with his head modeled on the spout. He wears a helmet but is otherwise nude with prominent genitalia. His arms, legs, and neck are tied with rope as is evidenced via the painted striations. His angry visage is adorned with tattoos or perhaps scarification marks finely painted in dark red slip. Upon his back and side are several painted animal tattoos including a spotted jaguar, a fish, and a serpent. Our suspicion is that a bird may also be adorning the darker section of the pottery, so as to represent all realms of the universe, but is no longer easy to see. What is so interesting about this piece is that the victim's features depart from typical Moche physiognomy and thus probably represent those of a foreigner. No matter where he is from, he is clearly not happy! Size: 5.25" W x 7.5" H (13.3 cm x 19 cm)

Provenance: Ex-California Museum of Ancient Art

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#115223

  • Condition: Repaired from two pieces. Expected surface wear and minor abrasions.

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June 22, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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