Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche ca. 400 to 700 CE. Large and detailed pottery jar in the form of a regal owl. Body covered with cream feathers over brick-red background. His facial expression is one of the finer we have ever seen. His feathers stretch along the rear and almost touch at the very back. Small feet emerge from the base. A lovely and large example! Size: 7.25" W x 12" H (18.4 cm x 30.5 cm)

he Moche had a particular affinity for the animal, depicting multiple species, including the barn owl, typical owl, burrowing owl, and spectacle owl. Owls represented gods, warriors, sacrifices, and shamans. An anthropomorphic owl was also the chief supernatural warrior of Moche mythology.

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: private Superior, Colorado, USA collection; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York City, New York, USA, auction 93, lot 248. Ex. private West Virginia collection, acquired late 1960’s- 1970’s, then by descent

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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#175693

  • Condition: Hairline crack down the front restored (visible on interior but not exterior) else intact and quite excellent

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November 10, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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