Moche Wood Scepter c. 400-800 AD.
Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Moche Wooded Scepter
This intricately carved Moche wood scepter, representing a high-ranking warrior, is a remarkable artifact of Mochica artistry, dating back to 400-800 AD in Northern Peru. The warrior depicted is important, signifying his elite status through the detailed embellishments and symbolic elements adorning the scepter. He is poised, gripping a mace club close to his chest, symbolizing power and authority in Moche culture.
The scepter is richly adorned with inlaid Red Spondylus, meticulously shaped to form bracelets, belts, and eyes, adding a vibrant contrast to the dark wood. The necklace, crafted from Nacre (mother-of-pearl) and green stones, symbolizes the warrior’s connection to the spiritual world, with the green stones representing pupils, a significant element in Moche iconography. These adornments enhance the visual appeal and serve as indicators of the warrior’s high status and role in Moche society’s ceremonial or possibly military aspects.
A crouched jaguar, an influential and revered animal in Moche culture, is perched atop the warrior’s head. The jaguar, with its ears alert, eyes squinting, and canines bared, embodies intimidation and strength, projecting the warrior’s fearsome nature. The presence of two long-fanged serpents extending down his back and shoulders further emphasizes the connection to powerful, supernatural forces, as serpents were often associated with fertility, water, and the underworld in ancient Andean cultures.
The lower handle of the scepter tapers elegantly, maintaining the overall balance of the piece while ensuring it is practical for use. The beautiful patina that has developed over centuries adds to the scepter’s aesthetic and historical value. Trace roots and microscopic textile fibers are still embedded in the resin, offering a glimpse into its ancient origins.
This piece measures over 12 inches (30.48 cm) in length and extends to 15 inches (38.1 cm) when mounted on its custom metal stand. As a well-preserved and finely crafted example of Moche woodwork, it serves as both a work of art and a cultural relic, offering insights into the Moche civilization’s beliefs, rituals, and social structures.
Condition: Choice
Provenance: Ex Sam Johnson, Caddo Museum A-165 Card, Murfreesboro, AR; Ex Kevin Pipes Collection, Dandridge, TN
Price – $12,800
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases