Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 BC. A fine pair of hand-built pottery warrior and shaman figures. Both are posed in a standing position with an intimidating staff or club held aloft, as if about to strike. The larger figure wears applied jewelry and a loin cloth around his waist, and has protruding genitalia at the front. His face is comprised of applied eyes, a pointed nose, and simple lips. Upon his head is a horned headdress with a chin strap; this horn is indicative of shamanic status. From his back is a long rod or finial with a petite dog surmounted on the tip. The other figure is similarly built, with an applied loincloth, jewelry, and horned headdress. From his back is a large applied panel that may have also indicated his rank as a shaman warrior. The smaller figure presents with an orange-terracotta hue. The larger has nice traces of red pigments on his face. Warriors and shamans were revered members of Colima society. Size larger figure: 3" L x 2" W x 6.375" H (7.6 cm x 5.1 cm x 16.2 cm)

Clay figures like these are the only remains that we have today of a sophisticated and unique culture in West Mexico - they made no above-ground monuments or sculptures, at least that we know of, which is in strong contrast to developments elsewhere in ancient Mesoamerica. These figures provide a wonderful glimpse into everyday life, warfare, and religious beliefs!

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

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#163578

Larger figure repaired with restoration to both arms, staff, and dog on finial. Visible traces of adhesive residue on finial and back of warrior's head. Dog tail reattached with visible break line. Smaller figure repaired with staff reattached to hands and restoration to both arms and staff. Nice mineral deposits on both. Larger figure has nice traces of pigments on the face.