Stirrup Vessel with Fineline Painting Depicting a Figures in Reed Boat c. 100 - 500

This stirrup-shaped vessel from the Moche culture of ancient Peru, dating back to c. 100-500 CE, showcases intricate fine-line painting on a cream-colored clay surface. The vessel's design depicts a scene of figures in a reed boat, navigating through a sea of stylized waves. The Moche people, known for their masterful ceramics, often utilized these vessels for ceremonial purposes, and their elaborate imagery provides valuable insights into their daily life, mythology, and social hierarchy. This particular vessel, now part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, exemplifies the Moche artistic tradition of combining practicality with intricate artistry, making it an important piece for understanding ancient Peruvian culture.