The Moche people of ancient Peru, have been
called the Greeks of South America, and with
good reason. The rudimentary technical and
artistic developments of earlier cultural styles
achieved complete maturity in the Mochica style.
Rarely have any people at any time in human
history created a more impressive picture of the
variety of their daily life and of the gods they
worshiped, than did the Moche people. The
specialization of craftsmanship which began
during the Chavin culture was developed further
during this classic period, resulting in the
evolution of an immense variety of special skills,
the discoveries of the past forming the basis on
which new techniques could unfold. This artistic
creativity and craftsmanship brilliantly illustrated
in this gold hollow-core male head, its simple
form instilled with tremendous spirited power.
Wearing the traditional domed close-fitting
helmet, this Mochica male stares out at us
through wide-rimmed eyes, his jutting mouth
open with its tongue projecting out. Perhaps this
commanding image, its form pierced through the
back on either side, was worn by a warrior
during a ritual ceremony, its potent spirit
energizing the wearer. Whatever its original
function, this vibrant work of art remains today
as a stunning example of the highly skilled and
creative Moche culture, one which continues to
cast its magic spell upon us.
- (FJ.5049)
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