Mochica Seated Bound Prisoner
Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Mochica Bound Prisoner
An extraordinarily expressive wooden Moche III seated bound prisoner. He is uniquely made from a piece of the Aphandra (mastodon palm) tree into a human Calero (lime container). His facial features are exaggerated and remarkable. Almond-shaped eyes, made of shell with purple spondylus pupils. Large nose, ears, and pointed head. Curled copper-wired whiskers are also attached to his face, and nacre (mother of pearl) is applied around the neckline. Unclothed with hands bound by a rope behind his back. The head is removable, which exposes the attached copper spatula and hollowed-out lower body. The fearsome Moche captured their enemy and humiliated them by removing their clothing and parading them before sacrifice. Removal of his head could symbolize the tribute of taking a trophy head.
An outstanding piece of art history in wood is rarely seen in an exceptional state of preservation and subject matter.
Size: 4″/10.16cm Unmounted – 6.25″/15.87cm Mounted
Condition: Near Choice. Natural wood separation on the back. One pupil has been re-attached. Copper oxidation under the head where the spatula is attached.
Mochica III 200-300AD
Price $2,480
This item was featured here in the Native American Art Magazine
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases