Portrait Vessel of a Young Man with a Scarred Lip c. 100 - 500

This ceramic portrait vessel, created by the Moche culture of ancient Peru, depicts a young man with a scarred lip. The vessel's realistic portrayal, featuring detailed facial features and intricate painted designs, showcases the Moche's artistic skill. This piece, now in the Art Institute of Chicago, provides a glimpse into the lives and customs of the Moche people and highlights their talent for ceramics, a hallmark of their culture. The vessel's small size suggests a possible use as a container for personal items or offerings.