Moche
Peru
Effigy vessel, 400–600
Ceramic, pigment
8 1/4 inches
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, The Ethel Morrison Van Derlip Fund, 44.3.43

The standing effigy figure is one of the principal iconographical forms of Moche ceramic sculpture. This large jar shows a Moche official in ceremonial dress. He wears a robe with a broad white collar, a textile belt with a woven fret design, and a white breechcloth. His head is covered with an elaborate headdress decorated with two discs painted with symbols that could be references to the sun. Like most Moche men of high status, this individual wears ear spools and bracelets as jewelry.