The Moche were unique in ancient Peru in creating realistic human portraits, usually in the form of ceramic vessels. In general, such vessels represent more than 750 individuals; identities are unclear but most are elite men, some probably rulers. The stirrup-shaped spout is a hallmark of Moche ceramic production.

<i>The Gruener Collection of Pre-Columbian Art</i>. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (February 4-November 29, 1992).

The Gruener Collection of Pre-Columbian Art

Cleveland, OH: The Cleveland Museum of Art; February 4 - November 29, 1992. "The Gruener Collection of Pre-Columbian Art." The Bulletin of The Cleveland Museum of Art. 79 (September, 1992.) cat. no.  132, p. 275, repr. fig. 132, p. 265.

A reddish-brown earthenware vessel depicts a human head with a tall spout extending from a curved handle atop the crown. The face features wide-set eyes, a straight nose, a thin mouth, and prominent ears. A cream-colored headband wraps the forehead, decorated with brown geometric triangles and zigzags. Dark mottled patches of discoloration mark the left side of the face. The vessel's smooth surface is finished with a polished, colored slip.

(May Company, Cleveland, OH, 1967, sold to James C. and Florence C. Gruener)

James C. [1903-1990] and Florence C. [1908-1982] Gruener, Cleveland, OH, bequest to the Cleveland Museum of Art

Portrait Head Vessel

Peru, North Coast, Moche style

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Portrait Head Vessel

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Portrait Head Vessel

Peru, North Coast, Moche style

Description

Portrait Head Vessel

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