Stirrup Spout Vessel with Fineline Lizard Motifs c. 100 - 500

This ceramic vessel, created by the Moche civilization of ancient Peru, dates back to 100–500 CE. Its rounded form and distinct stirrup spout are characteristic of Moche pottery. The vessel is adorned with intricate white-on-red line designs depicting a lizard, showcasing the Moche's skilled craftsmanship and artistic sensibility. The Moche people were known for their elaborate ceramics, which often depicted scenes of daily life, mythology, and rituals. This vessel, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Moche civilization.