Portrait Vessel of a Ruler c. 100 - 500

This Moche "Portrait Vessel of a Ruler" is a ceramic vessel from the Moche civilization of ancient Peru, dating back to between 100 and 500 CE. The vessel depicts the head of a ruler, likely a warrior, in a stylized fashion, featuring a helmet and large, expressive eyes. The vessel's unique form and realistic details demonstrate the Moche's skill in ceramics and artistic mastery. Such vessels served not only as functional containers but also as symbolic representations of power and social status, making them an important part of the Moche cultural heritage.