Moche Portrait Head Vessel

The remarkable Moche portrait vessels, discovered in tombs throughout Northern Peru, depict the ancient aristocracy. These powerful images were buried as tokens of respect from the individuals they portray. Sometimes, more than one image of a particular person is known, marking him out as someone of importance. The distinctive jawline, the rich jewelry and the confident air of this man immediately identify him as a leader of his age. Much more than an accurate image, the artist has captured the spirit of his sitter, an attitude of self-assurance that shines through the ages.