Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, Phase IV to V, ca. 500 to 850 CE. Both a bit terrifying and comical, a fine example of one of the classic forms of pre-Columbian pottery - the Moche stirrup vessel - in the form of an anthropomorphic head with a handle and spout rising from the top to create a ceremonial drinking vessel - ala canteen. This particular vessel depicts Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche culture. He bears the identifying marks of the god, with feline fangs extending from his fierce mouth and a headdress featuring a feline head and 2 claws. Gently shake the wonderful example to create a light rattling sound! A vessel like this would most likely have been created for a member of the elite and placed in his tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate wealth as he began his journey into the afterlife. Size: 5" in diameter x 9.375" H (12.7 cm x 23.8 cm)
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.
Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA, donated to Ashland University between July 1994 to December 1998
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.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
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PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship Replace: most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage Replace: firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#165950
Condition
TL holes to base and back of head. Repair to spout with break lines visible. Losses to areas near break lines. Some nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice remaining pigments.