Stirrup Spout Vessel in the Form of a Seated Figure

Culture: Moche
Period: Early Intermediate period, c.200 BCE–600 CE
Date: c.300–550 CE
Material: Ceramic with pigment
made in: Peru, South America
Classification: Ceramics, containers
Collection: Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Current Location: On View, Gallery 111
Dimensions: 9 3/8 x 5 1/4 x 7 3/4 in. (23.8 x 13.3 x 19.7 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of J. Lionberger Davis
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 124:1954

NOTES

The area above the upper lip of this figure contains a distinct mark, likely indicating a birth defect or scar. Similar markings above the lip are documented on over forty-five vessels, suggesting a portrayal of the same individual. The figure wears a headdress composed of a single piece of cloth wrapped around the head and tied at the back with the ends extending down the back of the vessel. The cream-colored tunic is decorated with a composite image of a wave and bird on the chest and triangular motifs at the cuffs.

Provenance

- c.1949–50
A. Salazar, Lima, Peru

c.1949–50 - 1954
J. Lionberger Davis (1878-1973), St. Louis, MO, USA, purchased from A. Salazar [1]

1954 -
Saint Louis Art Museum, given by J. Lionberger Davis [2]

Notes:
[1] According to a list of objects given to the museum by J. Lionberger Davis, this object was purchased from "Salazar in Peru in 1949-50." A note found on the accession further identifies it was purchased from "A. Salazar, Lima, Peru" [SLAM document files].

[2] A letter dated December 15, 1954 from Perry T. Rathbone, director of the City Art Museum, to Davis acknowledges the gift of this object as part of a larger donation [Director's Office, Donor Files, Archives, Saint Louis Art Museum]. Minutes of the Administrative Board of Control of the City Art Museum, December 9, 1954.

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