Though Moche pottery openly celebrates sensual
pleasure, there was a strong moral code within
Moche society regarding acceptable sexual
behavior. Certain practices and acts were
forbidden, and offenders, if caught, were
punished. Depending on the severity of the
offense, punishment could range from flogging
to death. Amputation and disfigurement of the
face and limbs were common forms of marking
criminals, and figures showing evidence of such
punishment are not uncommon on Moche
vessels. Running parallel to the uninhibited
erotic trend
in Moche art was a moralizing tone that warned
against excess of any sort. It would seem that
this unusual figure was guilty of some sexual
offense. Though his nose has been cut away, his
penis remains erect as if to remind us of his
guilt. He regards the viewer with rather sad eyes,
perhaps pleading for the understanding of a
more enlightened society.
- (K.002)
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