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

This ceramic stirrup vessel depicting a supernatural being within a shell was created by the Moche people. Notice how the vessel's form combines a rounded body with an elevated, arching spout, creating a dynamic yet balanced composition. The creamy surface is punctuated by reddish-brown painted figures, presenting a stark contrast that immediately draws the eye. The stylized depiction of a supernatural being offers a glimpse into the Moche culture’s rich symbolism. Through a semiotic lens, we can view the iconography, such as the being's attributes and the shell, as signifiers of broader cultural meanings related to power, spirituality, and the natural world. This imagery invites us to consider how the Moche people perceived their relationship with the cosmos. The interplay between form and image exemplifies how art can function beyond mere aesthetics, encapsulating a society’s beliefs and values. This vessel serves as a reminder that art objects are never isolated entities but are embedded in networks of meaning that reflect the complexities of human experience.