Stirrup vessel (fake)

Item

Title

Stirrup vessel (fake)

Country of origin

Peru

Measurements

17 x 14.5 cm

Description

High demand by private collectors for antiquities from these countries has resulted in the massive destruction of archaeological sites and the looting of thousands of objects. Popular among collectors are stirrup and portrait vessels from ancient cultures like Moche and Nazca. However, local people desperate for income have resorted to forging objects. They repair broken pieces, copy painted designs, or stain replicas to resemble ancient artifacts. The experts relied on weight, execution of the painted design, and iconography to tell the difference.

Identifier

72_2

Rights

This image is posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses may not be permitted.