Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, Phase III, ca. 350 to 550 CE. A unique bichrome stirrup vessel in the form of the deity Ai Apec as a turtle. The god has anthropomorphic and reptilian elements that make up his unusual body. He squats with legs bent in front of his compressed stomach. The head juts forward with incised wrinkles around neck. The nose and mouth are pointed and very beak like. The eyes bulge outward, and rounded ears protrude to the sides. Upon his back is a heart shaped shell and the stirrup handle and spout project from this area. This hybrid being has all hallmarks of Ai Apec, who harnessed the power of the sea and fierceness of land animals. All is painted in red and beige pigments. Size: 6" W x 8.5" H (15.2 cm x 21.6 cm)
Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA, donated to Ashland University between July 1994 to December 1998
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#166371
Condition
Restoration to handle and spout, over painting near base of handle at both ends. Chips and nicks to rim of spout. Abrasion and loss to surface on snout and mouth of the head. Some fading of pigments and surface wear as expected with age.