Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, Phase III, ca. 350 to 550 CE. A delightful pottery stirrup vessel in the form of a Muscovy duck with head bent downward to rest his long beak atop his puffed chest. Wings folded at his sides, the bird displays finely delineated plumage, large, bulging eyes, and a petite nodule at the end of the beak. In ancient Peru, Muscovy ducks were admired for their adept skills, their wide wingspan, and their graceful flight; not to mention their ability to fly low just above the water to scoop a heap of fish in their large beaks and then drain the water though their bill which acts as a sieve. Size: 8" L x 8" W x 4" H (20.3 cm x 20.3 cm x 10.2 cm)

The Moche domesticated the Muscovy duck and used it for feathers; feathers were a symbol of the elite. The males of the species are frequently aggressive, and this drew the attention of the Moche, making the animal a special symbol for warriors. The Lord of Spain was buried with ear spools decorated with Muscovy ducks, perhaps to emphasize his status as a great ruler and a powerful warrior.

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#185989

  • Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and resurfacing in areas; all done very well and difficult to notice. Some small chips to surface, but otherwise excellent with nice detail and earthen deposits to interior.

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June 7, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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