Mold-Made Blackware Pendant with Rounded Headdress c. 100 - 600

Curator: Isn't he something? This Moche pendant, crafted from mold-made blackware, captures a figure with such serene gravity, especially considering it's been around since approximately 100 to 600 AD. Editor: The matte texture and that earthy umber color—it evokes such a feeling of grounding. It's like this figure emerged directly from the earth. Curator: Exactly! It makes you think about the whole process: from gathering the clay to firing the kiln, hands shaping, smoke staining. The pendant gives you such a strong sense of place, not just the landscape, but also the specific making, the labor! Editor: Right. I wonder, how did they ensure consistent production? The pendant’s description suggests it’s mold-made. Mass production meets individual expression. Curator: I'd imagine each pendant would have its own quirks because blackware firing is fickle, isn't it? Each pendant likely unique through accidents and choices during the process! Editor: And it's hard not to read the form itself. The gesture of the hands clasped seems incredibly intentional. And that hat—a rounded headdress—surely has significance, indicating status or role, what do you think? Curator: Perhaps, or maybe it's symbolic attire—an almost meditative calm radiates. And thinking about its original purpose as a pendant— a little portrait, travelling everywhere with someone, bringing presence, what a delightful notion! Editor: And that gets me thinking again about what kind of body this person had? Like where would the clasp connect? Why that color? Each decision has some social function as well. And what did they trade? Or offer? Curator: Questions on questions! To view it now as just a beautiful, small treasure...almost feels wrong when it once was loaded with all this utility and cultural purpose. Editor: Right! These material considerations show how ancient artworks, and this little pendant, bridge so much: labor, representation, and value! Curator: Thank you, this look into the material has just enriched my soul.