Description:

Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Moche culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. This striking pottery vessel represents Ai Apec, the principal deity of the Moche, depicted with his iconic fierce expression and prominent fangs. The vessel showcases a finely modeled head, adorned with intricate details capturing the deity’s formidable presence. Ai Apec, also known as the Decapitator, was associated with power, protection, and fertility in Moche mythology. This vessel, formerly part of a Sotheby’s collection, reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship and deep spiritual symbolism characteristic of Moche ceramic artistry, making it an exceptional piece of ancient Peruvian culture. Size: 10.5" W x 14.3" H (26.7 cm x 36.3 cm)

Provenance: private Owen collection, Sussex County, New Jersey, USA, acquired from Arte Primitivo, New York, USA in the 1990s; ex-Allan Caplan collection; ex-Sotheby's

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#189860

  • Condition: Intact, the lower part of the reverse surface eroded but intact and strong. Such large vessels are quite rare for Moche pieces.

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November 15, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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