Stirrup Vessel Depicting an Anthropomorphic Crab and Abstract Fish c. 100 - 500

This stirrup-spout vessel, a signature form of Moche ceramic art, depicts a dynamic scene featuring an anthropomorphic crab and an abstract fish. Dating from c. 100 to 500, the vessel is characterized by the intricate, detailed black-on-white painted designs that are a hallmark of Moche ceramics. The vessel's unique stirrup-shaped handle, which likely served a practical purpose, also contributes to its distinctive form. This piece is a testament to the Moche's skill in pottery and their fascination with the natural world, and is housed in the Art Institute of Chicago.