Stirrup-spout Bottle
Artist/Maker
Moche
(North Coast, Peru) Date100-800
Mediumpottery and slip paint
DimensionsOverall: 9 5/8 x 6 3/8 in. (24.4 x 16.2 cm)
ClassificationsContainers
Credit LineGift of Albert Gildred
Object number76.008.002
DescriptionThe vessel depicts Ai Apaec in combat with a supernatural fish. The fish warrior holds a severed head. The production of press-molded bottles became common on the North Coast of Peru and many examples have been found at both Moche and later Chimu sites. It enabled the potter to reproduce many of the same shapes from one mold. Embellishments were added later. The human figure is always presented in a stylized manner - legs seen from the side, torso from the front, and heads in profile. Painted surfaces usually show all animals, birds and fish in profile only.
