Pre-Columbian, northern Peru, Moche II, ca. 300 CE. A superb example of the pottery portrait vessels of the Moche culture presenting a flat base and inward-curved rim and adorned in hues of russet, black, and cream. The fascinating visage gazes forth from large, almond-shaped eyes beneath a straight brow and above a prominent nose and naturalistic mouth, all flanked by a pair of sizeable ears fit with annular earspools. A helmet-like headdress caps the ancient figure, while the face is adorned by black face paint, indicating that he is likely a warrior. The Moche are perhaps the only ancient culture in the Americas that produced such portrait vessels. Some of these vessels have allowed scholars to follow the age and rank of individuals solely via their depictions on the pottery. These individuals lived and in their own way were rock stars of the day. This pottery kero was likely used for drinking chicha. Size: 6.2" in diameter x 5.3" H (15.7 cm x 13.5 cm)
Provenance: private New York, USA collection; ex-Harmer Rooke, May 1994
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.
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 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 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.
#165539
Condition
Collection label on base. Repair to rim with restoration. Some light abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice pigment.