Portrait Vessel of a Ruler with Mustache and Feathered Headdress c. 100 - 500

This ceramic portrait vessel, created by the Moche civilization of ancient Peru, depicts a ruler adorned with a feathered headdress and a mustache. The vessel's shape is reminiscent of a human head, with the spout forming the neck and the handle resembling an ear. The Moche, known for their mastery of ceramics, crafted this vessel between 100 and 500 CE. The vessel's intricate details and the ruler's imposing presence underscore the importance of leadership within Moche society.