Pre-Columbian, North Coast of Peru, Moche, ca. 400 to 800 CE. A hand-built pottery jar of sizable form depicting Ai Apec (also Ai Apaec), the traditional primary deity of the Mochica people. Adorned in lavish clothing in black and white hues on the orange ground, Ai Apec presents with hands placed atop his belly and fangs emanating from his mouth. His expressive countenance is framed with multiple painted earrings as well as a grand headdress suggestive of corn or maize; Ai Apec returns from the underworld in the form of sprouting plants - namely corn - in Moche mythology. Size: 7.375" W x 10.25" H (18.7 cm x 26 cm)

Ai Apec was the creator god, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture. He provided water, food, and military triumphs to the Moche, but this powerful figure was also feared. Here, he bears the identifying marks associated with his iconography: feline fangs extending from his fierce mouth, spotted jaguar-inspired arms, and two serpents sprouting from his head. A vessel like this would most likely 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-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010; ex-private American collection

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#174942

Repair and restoration to areas of rim, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Abrasions, fading to pigment, and a few spalls. Nice preservation to overall form and most finer details.