Stirrup Spout Vessel Depicting a Man Riding a Llama c. 100 - 500

This ceramic stirrup spout vessel depicting a man riding a llama was crafted by the Moche people of ancient Peru. The Moche civilization flourished along the northern coast of Peru from about 200 to 850 AD, and were deeply influenced by their environment and belief systems. The sculpture is of a man riding a llama, and it reflects the close relationship between humans and animals, particularly the importance of the llama for transportation and resources. In Moche society, the llama symbolized not only physical sustenance but also spiritual connection, representing an intrinsic link between the earthly and the divine. The piece seems to capture a moment of transit and reflection, revealing a glimpse into the daily life and ceremonial landscape of the Moche people. The sculpture also shows a sensitivity to the animal’s form and the rider’s interaction with it. This vessel is a reminder of how art can serve as a medium for understanding the cultural narratives and societal structures that shaped the ancient world.