The Moche people of ancient Peru, have been called the Greeks of South America, and with good reason. The rudimentary technical and artistic developments of earlier cultural styles achieved complete maturity in the Mochica style. Rarely have any people at any time in human history created a more impressive picture of the variety of their daily life and of the gods they worshiped, than did the Moche people. The specialization of craftsmanship which began during the Chavin culture was developed further during this classic period, resulting in the evolution of an immense variety of special skills, the discoveries of the past forming the basis on which new techniques could unfold. This artistic creativity and craftsmanship brilliantly illustrated in this gold hollow-core male head, its simple form instilled with tremendous spirited power. Wearing the traditional domed close-fitting helmet, this Mochica male stares out at us through wide-rimmed eyes, his jutting mouth open with its tongue projecting out. Perhaps this commanding image, its form pierced through the back on either side, was worn by a warrior during a ritual ceremony, its potent spirit energizing the wearer. Whatever its original function, this vibrant work of art remains today as a stunning example of the highly skilled and creative Moche culture, one which continues to cast its magic spell upon us.