Pre-Columbian Moche pottery figure

Pre-Columbian Moche pottery figure from the North Coast of Peru, ca. 100 BCE-500 CE. Moche pottery figure, a small ceramic sculpture from the Moche civilization. The figure displays the characteristic style of Moche pottery with its robust and compact form, representing a standing human figure with exaggerated facial features.

The figure is depicted with a pronounced nose, large circular eyes, and a stern expression. The head is adorned with a flat headdress, a common feature in Moche depictions, which suggests the person may have held a specific social or ritual role. The ears are prominent, possibly indicating ear spools, which were commonly worn by high-status individuals in Moche society. The figure's arms are bent at the elbows, with the hands placed near the chest, which could suggest a gesture of offering or reverence.

The pottery is made from reddish-brown clay, with a burnished surface that gives it a smooth texture. The figure is relatively simple, lacking intricate surface decorations, which may suggest it was a more utilitarian or everyday object, rather than a highly elaborate ceremonial piece.

Moche figures like this were often used in rituals, as burial offerings, or as decorative elements in domestic or sacred spaces. The style and form of the piece provide valuable insights into the Moche's artistic conventions and their emphasis on depicting human figures with expressive and exaggerated characteristics.

5-1/4" in height. Ex. Hannah Gandelman collection acquired through family descent, Hollywood, Fl. In the family collection prior to 1970.