Replica of Pre-Columbian, Moche single loop stirrup vessel modeled as a Mochica warrior in full armor, kneeling on one leg, holding a maize club or spear. The warrior dons impressive regalia, an elaborate headdress adorned with an image of a jaguar head in relief. The jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. In addition, the principal Moche god wears a headdress adorned with a jaguar head and important mortals such as the warrior depicted in this example donned similar headdresses. A nocturnal animal, the jaguar sleeps in caves and dark places and creeps quietly in the forest, evoking great mystery. Oddly enough, few Moche artists would have actually seen jaguars as they are not indigenous to the coast. Jaguars prefer moist forest conditions. However, scholars believe that some cubs were transported over the mountains for Moche rituals and it is also possible that some jaguars wandered down the coast. Crafted in the north of Peru.