Stirrup Vessel Depicting a Supernatural Being within a Shell c. 100 - 500

This stirrup-shaped vessel, created by the Moche people of ancient Peru, is a prime example of their ceramic artistry. Dating back to c. 100 - 500, this vessel showcases the Moche's detailed and sophisticated artistic style. The vessel is adorned with a depiction of a supernatural being, likely a deity or mythical creature, within a shell-like enclosure, a motif frequently found in Moche art. The intricate, black and brown lines on the vessel's surface, representing the creature's features and the surrounding details, demonstrate the Moche's advanced mastery of ceramic painting. This vessel, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Moche civilization.