Portrait Vessel of a Captive c. 100 - 500

This ceramic vessel, crafted by the Moche people of ancient Peru, is a striking example of their mastery of pottery and their rich visual culture. Dated between 100 and 500 AD, it depicts a seated figure, likely a captive, with detailed facial features and a simple, yet striking, headdress. This "Portrait Vessel of a Captive" is a testament to the Moche's artistry and serves as a fascinating window into their complex social and political structures. The figure's bound hands and the vessel's use as a container further suggest the importance of captivity and ritual sacrifice in Moche society.