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Details / Information for Portrait Head Vessel

Portrait Head Vessel

c. 200–550 CE
Measurements
Overall: 32 x 18.6 x 19.3 cm (12 5/8 x 7 5/16 x 7 5/8 in.)
Public Domain
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Location
232 Andean

Description

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.
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.

Portrait Head Vessel

c. 200–550 CE

Peru, North Coast, Moche style

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