Vessel in Form of a Head Wearing a Bird Headdress c. 100 - 500

This vessel, created by the Moche civilization of ancient Peru, depicts a stylized human head wearing a headdress shaped like a bird, possibly a condor. The Moche were renowned for their ceramic artistry, often using their vessels to depict scenes from their daily lives, mythology, and rituals. This piece, with its intricate details and powerful imagery, demonstrates the skill and creativity of the Moche potters. Its presence at the Art Institute of Chicago is a testament to the enduring legacy of this ancient culture.