Blackware Handle Spout Vessel with Relief of a Reclining Musician with Pipes c. 100 - 500

This vessel, crafted by the Moche people of ancient Peru between 100 and 500 CE, is an example of the intricate artistry of the Moche culture. Made of blackware clay, it features a detailed relief sculpture depicting a reclining musician playing a panpipe. The spout of the vessel is formed by the musician's arm, while the handle is shaped by the musician's body. The vessel is a testament to the Moche's fascination with music, ritual, and artistic expression. The dark black clay and the meticulous details of the sculpture highlight the craftsmanship of the Moche potters and their ability to capture the dynamism of human figures.