Description: Terracotta. Peru, Moche culture, 8th century (dated) TL-test
The entire vessel consists of a seated figure leaning forward, a so-called “healer”. In her hands she holds a slice of the peyote cactus used to bring about a state of intoxication. The wrinkled facial features are very expressive in design and, on the whole, reflect her wisdom; large eyes, her hair ending in two braids. On her back is the almost circular handle with a vertically protruding, pipe-shaped spout. The Moche culture was located on Peru’s northern coast and experienced its golden age from around the 5th to 8th cent. This piece has been TL tested. The age provided here is confirmed by the German laboratory Kotalla’s report no. 54010911 from 2011.
Dimensions: HEIGHT 19.8 CM
Condition: Good, original condition
Provenance: Formerly part of Dr. Gottfried Eysank von Marienfels’ collection, Bad Sch?nau, Austria, acquired around 1970