Stirrup Vessel with one Side Painted with Textile-Like Stepped Motif c. 100 - 500

This Stirrup Vessel, created by the Moche civilization between 100-500 CE, is a testament to their skilled craftsmanship and artistry. Characterized by its distinctive stirrup-shaped handle, this vessel is decorated with a textile-like stepped motif in dark brown paint. The vessel's rounded form, intricate design, and practical function serve as a reminder of the Moche's advanced ceramic traditions. The piece is currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago. Moche pottery, known for its elaborate imagery, often depicts scenes of daily life, mythology, and rituals. This vessel, with its geometric pattern, showcases the Moche's mastery in creating both functional and aesthetically pleasing objects.