Handle Spout Vessel in the Form of a Cat Man c. 100 - 500

This ceramic vessel, created by the Moche people of ancient Peru, is a striking example of their artistic skill and cultural beliefs. Dating back to between 100 and 500 CE, the vessel is shaped in the form of a feline-human hybrid, known as a "cat man," a recurring motif in Moche art. Its detailed modeling, with the fierce expression and the handle formed by the animal's curled tail, reflects the Moche people's fascination with animals and their connection to the supernatural. This piece, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the Moche culture's rich visual traditions and their enduring legacy.