**Originally Listed At $600**

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 300 CE. A lovely mold-made stirrup vessel in the form of a conch shell, enveloped in a creamy hue of yellow-beige glaze. Sitting upon a flat base, the charming vessel displays a slightly pointed spire incised with a spiral to represent its apex and whorl and a conical body that tapers to its siphonal notch. A stirrup handle attaches at the top of the body and supports a tall spout. In the Pacific Ocean, the conch shell hosted a living sea snail that the Moche culture possibly ate then used the magnificent shells as instruments. Size: 6.5" L x 5.125" W x 7.875" H (16.5 cm x 13 cm x 20 cm)

The shape of this vessel has symbolic meaning for the conch was a life-giving force from the ocean that the Moche venerated. The shells could be made into trumpets, and music from these wind instruments was often played during ceremonies. The shell was also a material popular for intricate carving, for it withstood shattering. A vessel like this would have been created for a member of the elite and placed in their tomb as a grave offering to demonstrate their wealth as they began their journey into the afterlife.

Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA, donated to Ashland University between July 1994 to December 1998

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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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#165948

Repaired from several pieces with restoration and some break lines visible. Abrasions and chips as shown. Otherwise, very nice with impressive remaining glaze.