Bottle in Form of a Figure Carrying a Burden with a Tumpline c. 100 - 500

This ceramic bottle, created by the Moche civilization between 100 and 500 CE, is a stunning example of their mastery of figurative art. The bottle is shaped like a figure carrying a burden with a tumpline, a strap used to carry heavy objects on the back. This unique form is indicative of the Moche's focus on daily life and their fascination with human anatomy. The figure's detailed features, including the facial expression and the elaborate headdress, demonstrate the artist's skillful rendering of human form. This bottle, now housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the Moche's rich artistic tradition and their remarkable ability to capture the essence of human experience in ceramic form.