Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 200 to 600 CE. A mold-made bichrome terracotta portrait stirrup vessel with the body in the form of the head of a lord or warrior. He has a strong face with realistic features including large, almond-shaped eyes, a naturalistic nose, and a large mouth with lines in the cheeks around it. His face is painted with vertical deep red stripes down its sides. He wears enormous earspools and a curved, turban-like helmet or headdress with a painted and incised motif on its front and a painted, pelt-like decoration on its back. The stirrup handle projects from the back of the figure and the tall, cylindrical spout rises high above his head. This is the type of face that reaches across time to command your attention. Size: 5.45" W x 11.05" H (13.8 cm x 28.1 cm)
The Moche were among the only ancient cultures in the Americas to produce such portrait vessels. The sculptor's intent was to present a very realistic depiction, and interestingly, scholars have been able to follow the progression of age and rank of several of individuals portrayed in pottery. One particular face, easily identified because of his cut lip, appears in more than forty Moche pottery vessels. In their own way, these people were like rock stars of the day, portrayed by their own paparazzi. A wonderful example, remarkably lifelike with naturalistic features and a steadfast gaze.
Provenance: ex-Barakat Gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, acquired prior to 2000
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#153787
Condition
Intact, with light wear on surface commensurate with age including some small losses/pitting to the pigment, notably on the stirrup handle. The face is in incredible condition. Old collection label on underside.