Pre-Columbian | Northern Peru Moche-Style Globular Ceramic Vessel | Circa 900–1470 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Northern Peru, Andean Coast (Moche / Late Intermediate Tradition)
Material: Hand-modeled earthenware with mineral slip and fired pigmentation
Period: Late Intermediate to Late Horizon, circa 900–1470 CE
Description
This impressive Pre-Columbian ceramic vessel is hand-formed with a broad globular body, short neck, and gently flared rim—features characteristic of northern Peruvian domestic and ritual pottery. Its surface is decorated with red, ochre, and tan mineral slips applied in vertical flame-like motifs, echoing naturalistic symbolism associated with Andean artistic traditions.
The vessel’s shape suggests a functional role for storing liquids or grains, while its painted design reflects stylistic continuity from earlier Moche ceramic practices. The interior shows darkened firing tones, mineral inclusions, and soil deposits consistent with genuine archaeological-age ceramics. A small chip along the rim is present and expected for an authentic Pre-Columbian piece of this antiquity.
Features
- Globular vessel form with fluted lower body and wide mouth
- Mineral slip decoration in red, tan, and ochre hues
- Thick, stable base ideal for secure display
- Visible earthen deposits and mineral encrustations confirming age
- From a larger, vetted Pre-Columbian collection
Cultural Significance
Across the northern Andean coast, ceramic vessels served dual roles as practical storage containers and symbolic objects expressing cultural identity. Painted patterns often referenced agricultural cycles, natural forces, or community traditions.
This vessel reflects the enduring influence of the Moche aesthetic during later cultural periods, demonstrating how regional ceramic styles evolved while preserving deeply rooted artistic conventions.
Condition
Excellent archaeological condition.
Small chip on rim (documented).
Stable structure with no active cracks.
Surface deposits and earthen patina consistent with age and burial.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6.5 in
Width: 9 in
Age
Circa 900–1470 CE
Learn More
Discover the cultural background behind Northern Peruvian ceramics and the Moche artistic legacy: Moche Civilization Overview – Britannica
Browse more authenticated Pre-Columbian artifacts in our curated collection: Ancient Pre-Columbian Relics – Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Northern Peru, Andean Coast (Moche / Late Intermediate Tradition)
Material: Hand-modeled earthenware with mineral slip and fired pigmentation
Period: Late Intermediate to Late Horizon, circa 900–1470 CE
Description
This impressive Pre-Columbian ceramic vessel is hand-formed with a broad globular body, short neck, and gently flared rim—features characteristic of northern Peruvian domestic and ritual pottery. Its surface is decorated with red, ochre, and tan mineral slips applied in vertical flame-like motifs, echoing naturalistic symbolism associated with Andean artistic traditions.
The vessel’s shape suggests a functional role for storing liquids or grains, while its painted design reflects stylistic continuity from earlier Moche ceramic practices. The interior shows darkened firing tones, mineral inclusions, and soil deposits consistent with genuine archaeological-age ceramics. A small chip along the rim is present and expected for an authentic Pre-Columbian piece of this antiquity.
Features
- Globular vessel form with fluted lower body and wide mouth
- Mineral slip decoration in red, tan, and ochre hues
- Thick, stable base ideal for secure display
- Visible earthen deposits and mineral encrustations confirming age
- From a larger, vetted Pre-Columbian collection
Cultural Significance
Across the northern Andean coast, ceramic vessels served dual roles as practical storage containers and symbolic objects expressing cultural identity. Painted patterns often referenced agricultural cycles, natural forces, or community traditions.
This vessel reflects the enduring influence of the Moche aesthetic during later cultural periods, demonstrating how regional ceramic styles evolved while preserving deeply rooted artistic conventions.
Condition
Excellent archaeological condition.
Small chip on rim (documented).
Stable structure with no active cracks.
Surface deposits and earthen patina consistent with age and burial.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6.5 in
Width: 9 in
Age
Circa 900–1470 CE
Learn More
Discover the cultural background behind Northern Peruvian ceramics and the Moche artistic legacy: Moche Civilization Overview – Britannica
Browse more authenticated Pre-Columbian artifacts in our curated collection: Ancient Pre-Columbian Relics – Relic And Rarity
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