Stirrup Spout Vessel with Raised Lizard Motifs c. 100 - 500

This Stirrup Spout Vessel, a piece of Moche pottery from c. 100-500, showcases the artistic prowess of the ancient Andean civilization. The vessel's distinctive shape, with a stirrup-like spout and a bulbous body, is a hallmark of Moche ceramics. The intricate design of the lizard motifs, rendered in bold red hues against a cream-colored background, emphasizes the Moche's mastery of ceramic techniques. The vessel's rounded forms and decorative details highlight the Moche's fascination with the natural world and their ability to translate this into exquisite artistic creations. This Stirrup Spout Vessel, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the artistry and cultural heritage of the ancient Moche civilization.