The Ancient Moche civilization of the North Coast of Peru created through their pottery a vivid artistic record of their activities and the objects in their environment. Their artistic expression in pottery is amazingly varied. Animals, plants, deities and a wide range of life scenes are shown. Much of the art appears to tell a story and to give tantalizing glimpses into the daily life, ceremonies and mythology of the people who created it. This charming pot is a fine example of that artistic expression. Here a seated human figure cradles a muscovy duck, a large wild bird indigenous to the coast of Peru. The sensitive portrayal of the duck nestled in the figure's lap gives one the feeling that the artist who created this pot was not only attuned to the natural world around him but delighted in the creation of this vessel. The sculptural quality of the pot and the refined surface finish are testimonies to the skilled artistry of these Moche craftsmen. Their spirited legacy is a constant source of enjoyment for all today who are fortunate enough to experience this most creative and communicative of cultures.