Jar in the Form of a Seated Figure c. 100 - 500

Editor: This is a ceramic vessel, shaped like a seated figure, crafted by the Moche culture sometime between 100 and 500 CE. What I find striking is the incredibly detailed face—it almost seems to be smiling! How do you interpret this work? Curator: Considering the Moche civilization's known social structure, the subject's garments might denote social standing, potentially indicating a warrior or member of the elite class. Think about how visual signifiers of power and identity circulate within a culture. This is further interesting when you view it in contrast to similar portrait vessels found which showcase people from various walks of life. Editor: That's fascinating! The detail of the headdress compared to the simple geometric patterns on the "clothing" now seems really significant. Curator: Exactly. Moche ceramics, including these vessels, were often used in ritual contexts and as offerings. Can you imagine how such a vessel, bearing the likeness of a specific person, would have functioned within such a setting? It is not outside the realms of possibility to view the artistic choices of this indigenous american civilisation, of having social purpose, linked to its cultural practice of death. Editor: So, maybe a way to honor and connect with a person’s spirit, making them a continued part of the community through ritual? That gives the piece a whole new dimension compared to just admiring it for its artistic quality. Curator: Precisely! Understanding its socio-cultural role challenges us to consider art’s agency in shaping societal beliefs and behaviors. I have also found examples of vessels that are said to document war, I now think there could be potential significance in these portraits in regard to remembering great leaders and/or celebrating the victor in battle. What do you think? Editor: That's incredible, considering how portraiture functions in contemporary society for remembrance and honouring of historical figures. It's amazing how the Moche culture developed similar traditions. Curator: Yes. It’s through understanding the object’s public role and imagery in society that we enrich our appreciation of it, understanding the cultural intention of portrait art over thousands of years.