Globular Stirrup Vessel with Depicting Abstract Animals, Possibly Overpainted c. 100 - 500

This stirrup vessel, crafted by the Moche people of ancient Peru between 100 and 500 CE, exemplifies the artistic skill and cultural significance of their ceramics. Its globular shape, accented by a distinctive stirrup handle, provides a functional design for holding liquids. The vessel's surface is decorated with incised lines depicting abstract animals, likely representing deities or mythical creatures, adding a symbolic and ritualistic element to its purpose. Though possibly overpainted, the remaining pigments, primarily in shades of red, enhance the vessel's visual appeal and contribute to the intricate pattern. This artwork, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, serves as a testament to the enduring artistry of the Moche civilization.