Mexico
100 BC - 250 AD
Height 11 3/4" Length 16 1/2"
Provenance: J. Martinez, San Diego, CA; Jules Berman “Mr. Kahlua,” Los Angeles, CA, 1970s, importer and collector of note; John R. Jordan, Van Nuys, CA, 1960s, author, artist, and appraiser.
Many expressive ceramic sculptures of small, hairless, stout dogs have been found in tombs in northwestern Mexico. The culture now known as Colima flourished roughly 2200 to 1500 years ago, and dogs appear to have held an important place within daily life and belief. They served as companions and guardians, and in some accounts were also associated with sustenance and survival. Ancient stories reflect the significance of dogs in pre-Columbian Mexico, including accounts in which the dog aids humankind by helping find food and make fire. Other traditions connect the dog with the underworld, where it was believed to accompany or protect the souls of the dead on their journey. Works such as this example were likely placed in tombs in connection with those beliefs. This large Colima dog is especially notable for its realistic volume, open mouth, and strong sculptural presence, as well as for its distinguished provenance.
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Mexico
100 BC - 250 AD
Height 11 3/4" Length 16 1/2"
Provenance: J. Martinez, San Diego, CA; Jules Berman “Mr. Kahlua,” Los Angeles, CA, 1970s, importer and collector of note; John R. Jordan, Van Nuys, CA, 1960s, author, artist, and appraiser.
Many expressive ceramic sculptures of small, hairless, stout dogs have been found in tombs in northwestern Mexico. The culture now known as Colima flourished roughly 2200 to 1500 years ago, and dogs appear to have held an important place within daily life and belief. They served as companions and guardians, and in some accounts were also associated with sustenance and survival. Ancient stories reflect the significance of dogs in pre-Columbian Mexico, including accounts in which the dog aids humankind by helping find food and make fire. Other traditions connect the dog with the underworld, where it was believed to accompany or protect the souls of the dead on their journey. Works such as this example were likely placed in tombs in connection with those beliefs. This large Colima dog is especially notable for its realistic volume, open mouth, and strong sculptural presence, as well as for its distinguished provenance.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
INQUIRE HERE
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