Portrait vessel (fake)
Item
Title
Portrait vessel (fake)
Country of origin
Ecuador
Measurements
15 x 16 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
26_15
Rights
This image is posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses may not be permitted.