Moche Stirrup-Spout Effigy Jar

The Ancient Moche civilization of North Coast of Peru created a distinctive and prolific artistic record of their culture through their pottery. Much of this art gives us an imaginative glimpse into the daily life, ceremonies and mythology of the people who created it. This striking pot is an extraordinary example of that artistic expression. Here a powerful individual straddles the upper portion of the spouted vessel, dressed in spotted ceremonial garb vaguely reminiscent of some winged creature. Framed by the typical Moche headgear, a wide-eyed human face addresses the world while his daftly carved hands grasp a snake, whose thin body slithers down the side of the vessel. The wide tale end of the snake is met by the snarling visage of a powerful monster, whose open, sharp-toothed jaws are about to snare its prey. A long body, fins and tail make this monster image. We can only guess at the ancient complex symbolism represented on this extraordinary vessel. However, the ancient power and magnetism that once emanated from this masterpiece is still felt today, thanks to the masterful hands of one ancient, sensitive and perceptive potter.