Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Bound Captive Effigy Jar
Bound Captive Effigy Jar

Bound Captive Effigy Jar

Dateca. 100-700
MediumRedware
Dimensions9 3/4 x 6 inches (24.8 x 15.2 cm)
CultureMoche (Peru)
PeriodEarly Intermediate Period
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineTransfer from the Sociology - Anthropology Department. Spring 1956.
Terms
  • Perú
  • Ceramics
  • Redware
  • Rope
  • Prisoners
  • Moche
Object number56.229
Label CopyThis redware Moche face-neck human effigy jar is in the shape of a bound captive. The naked figure has a rope around his neck, legs tied together above the ankles, and hands bound above the wrists behind his back. The captive warrior's nakedness is symbolic of his degradation. It has been argued that many of these vessels are recognizable portraits of a single powerful ruler who rose to prominence, but who was sacrificed after losing some kind of battle or contest when he was middle-aged.
Collections