West Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic period
100 BC to 250 AD
Ceramic
Height: 5¾ in, Length: 10¼ in
Provenance: Blue Heron Gallery, Fallbrook, California
Colima ceramic dogs are among the most recognized forms of West Mexican shaft tomb pottery, closely associated with the xoloitzcuintle breed and its role as a companion and guide for the deceased on the journey to the afterlife. These vessels were placed in burial chambers of the shaft tomb tradition and are distinguished by their fleshy, rounded modeling and rich burnished slip, ranging in color from deep red to blackish brown. Their appeal lies in the sculptural economy with which Colima artists captured the animal's form and posture using minimal detail.
This example depicts a standing dog with alert, upright ears and a confident stance, its compact proportions and glossy burnished surface reflecting the expressive character that makes these West Mexican canine figures so recognizable. Though modest in scale, the piece carries a strong sculptural presence typical of the finest Colima work.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
West Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic period
100 BC to 250 AD
Ceramic
Height: 5¾ in, Length: 10¼ in
Provenance: Blue Heron Gallery, Fallbrook, California
Colima ceramic dogs are among the most recognized forms of West Mexican shaft tomb pottery, closely associated with the xoloitzcuintle breed and its role as a companion and guide for the deceased on the journey to the afterlife. These vessels were placed in burial chambers of the shaft tomb tradition and are distinguished by their fleshy, rounded modeling and rich burnished slip, ranging in color from deep red to blackish brown. Their appeal lies in the sculptural economy with which Colima artists captured the animal's form and posture using minimal detail.
This example depicts a standing dog with alert, upright ears and a confident stance, its compact proportions and glossy burnished surface reflecting the expressive character that makes these West Mexican canine figures so recognizable. Though modest in scale, the piece carries a strong sculptural presence typical of the finest Colima work.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
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