Effigy Jar Depicting a Dwarf Carrying a Puma c. 100 - 500

This effigy jar depicting a dwarf carrying a puma was made by the Moche people of ancient Peru, using ceramic materials. The Moche civilization thrived between the first and eighth centuries, and their art provides valuable insights into their society. This jar, with its detailed rendering of a dwarf, offers a glimpse into Moche social structures and beliefs. Dwarfism was often associated with spiritual power in ancient cultures, and this figure might represent a shaman or a person of high status. The puma, a symbol of strength and authority, adds another layer of meaning, possibly indicating the dwarf’s role in the society. Studying such artifacts involves careful analysis of archaeological findings, ethnohistorical documents, and comparative studies of ancient Andean cultures. By situating the artwork within its original context, we can better understand the social dynamics and institutional histories of the Moche people.