Moche Standing Warrior Figurine
Ceramic sculpture, hollow-form figurine • Ancient Moche Artist (North Coast Peru).
Style & Movement
Moche (Mochica) culture, likely Phase III or IV style.
Medium & Technique
Hand-modeled terracotta with bichrome slip decoration (cream and reddish-brown); burnished surface finish.
Creation Period
Early Intermediate Period, approximately 200–600 CE.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15–22 cm in height; small-scale three-dimensional sculpture.
Subject Description
An anthropomorphic figure depicted as a warrior. The figure wears a conical striped helmet, large circular earspools, and a tunic decorated with wave motifs and a stepped-fret border. He holds a small rectangular shield in his left hand. The posture and vacant, wide eyes are characteristic of Moche funerary or ritual offerings representing social status or military prowess.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The piece shows visible surface abrasions and minor losses to the slip, consistent with age and burial.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown. Based on visual characteristics, it appears to be an authentic Pre-Columbian artifact likely originating from a private collection of North Coast Peruvian antiquities.
Art Historical Significance
The Moche were master ceramicists of the ancient Andes. This figurine is significant for its representation of Moche iconography, specifically the military attire and the use of 'line-drawing' style slip painting which influenced later Andean cultures. It provides insight into the stratified social structure and importance of ceremonial combat in Moche society.
Notable Features
The distinctive spiral pattern on the helmet and the wave-like crests on the chest are hallmarks of Moche decorative motifs. The hollow construction contains a small rattle or vent hole typical of these regional votive figures.
Condition Issues
Surface wear, pitting, and mineralization (consistent with find-site conditions); slight chipping on the top of the conical hat and around the base; fading of pigmented slips.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with stable humidity. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent further fading of slips. A custom acrylic mount is recommended for display to prevent tipping.