Mexico, Teotihuacan, Xolapan phase
400–650 AD
Ceramic with white pigment
Height: 3½ in (8.9 cm)
Provenance: California University Professor; Art for Eternity, March 20, 2012; Private Collection, Honolulu, Hawaii
Teotihuacan ceramic figures of the Xolapan phase represent the mature period of the city's ceramic production, when mold-made techniques allowed for consistent figurine output across a highly organized urban workshop system. The large triangular or rectangular head form characteristic of Teotihuacan figures is understood to reflect a convention of portraiture specific to the city's artistic tradition, distinct from the naturalistic modeling of contemporary regional styles. Figures in kneeling or active postures are less common than standing types and are associated with ritual or ceremonial roles.
This small solid-molded figure is depicted in a kneeling pose with one arm raised, wearing a collar or necklace, with the characteristic Teotihuacan broad flat head and generalized facial features. Ample remains of white pigment are preserved on the surface, indicating the figure was originally fully painted, a treatment consistent with Teotihuacan ceramic practice of the period. The three-owner provenance including a named academic collection and a 2012 gallery sale gives this piece a documented ownership chain.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Mexico, Teotihuacan, Xolapan phase
400–650 AD
Ceramic with white pigment
Height: 3½ in (8.9 cm)
Provenance: California University Professor; Art for Eternity, March 20, 2012; Private Collection, Honolulu, Hawaii
Teotihuacan ceramic figures of the Xolapan phase represent the mature period of the city's ceramic production, when mold-made techniques allowed for consistent figurine output across a highly organized urban workshop system. The large triangular or rectangular head form characteristic of Teotihuacan figures is understood to reflect a convention of portraiture specific to the city's artistic tradition, distinct from the naturalistic modeling of contemporary regional styles. Figures in kneeling or active postures are less common than standing types and are associated with ritual or ceremonial roles.
This small solid-molded figure is depicted in a kneeling pose with one arm raised, wearing a collar or necklace, with the characteristic Teotihuacan broad flat head and generalized facial features. Ample remains of white pigment are preserved on the surface, indicating the figure was originally fully painted, a treatment consistent with Teotihuacan ceramic practice of the period. The three-owner provenance including a named academic collection and a 2012 gallery sale gives this piece a documented ownership chain.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
