Stirrup Spout Vessel with Missing Handle in the Form of a Head Wraped in Textile c. 100 - 500

This Stirrup Spout Vessel from the Moche culture of ancient Peru, dated c. 100-500, is a striking example of their ceramic artistry. The vessel, formed in the shape of a head wrapped in textile, showcases the Moche's mastery of modeling and detailed sculpting. The vessel, currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, features a serene facial expression with closed eyes and a calm demeanor. The use of slip-painted white and brown pigments adds a layer of visual depth, further enhancing the realistic portrayal of the human head. This ceramic masterpiece demonstrates the Moche's intricate understanding of human anatomy and their sophisticated artistic techniques, leaving a lasting legacy of their culture through this remarkable artwork.