Sculptural ceramic ceremonial vessel that represents a combat scene ML001736

This sculptural ceramic bottle represents a scene of ceremonial combat and ulterior procession of the defeated warriors. Moche warriors faced each other with clubs and shields. Combat was hand-to-hand and when a warrior removed another’s helmet or grabbed his hair the combat was over. The defeated warrior was stripped and his weapons and clothes were wrapped in a bundle. The victors led the defeated warriors by ropes tied around their necks to their final destination: the place of sacrifice. (UH)

Esta botella escultórica de cerámica representa una escena de combate ceremonial. Los guerreros Mochica se enfrentaban con sus porras y escudos. El combate era cuerpo a cuerpo, y cuando un guerrero le quitaba su casco al otro y lo sujetaba por el cabello, el enfrentamiento terminaba. El guerrero vencido era despojado de su atuendo, y se hacía un atado con sus armas y vestidos. Los vencedores llevaban a los guerreros derrotados con cuerdas amarradas al cuello hacia su destino final: el sacrificio. (UH)