Moche Bichrome Stirrup Vessel Dog Form w/ TL Test

**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, late Moche to early Chimu culture, ca. 1000 CE. An adorable hand-built stirrup vessel depicting a recumbent dog. The dog, while cute, might need fattening food - the artist has molded the body to accentuate the rib bones, spine, sunken dip above the hips, and the shoulder blades. The surface retains some of the white and orange pigments slip painted to create large spots. The pup lies with his snout touching his haunches, forming a semicircular shape. The double spouts protrude from his neck and hips, and the long handle spans across the body. A spotted dog accompanied the Moche mythological hero Ai Apaec, who was known as the maker or bringer of life. In accordance with their mythology, the Moche believed that dogs were the ideal faithful and loyal companions for humankind. Size: 7" L x 6.5" W x 4.5" H (17.8 cm x 16.5 cm x 11.4 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: ex-private Sarasota, Florida, USA collection, before 1965

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#165106
Condition Report: TL hole on base and second TL hole on left spout below handle. Stable hair line fissure around base of spout. Fading of pigments. Mineral and earthen deposits on handle. Intact and very good. Old inventory number on base.