Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A charming pottery vessel in the form of a seated duck. Enveloped in vibrant red slip, the adorable avian presents a portly body resting atop a pair of petite feet with delineated toes and wings tucked, the edge of each slightly risen in relief while the tips extend from the posterior, flanking the flared tail. Her lengthy neck extends forward, displaying a prominent Adam's apple and supporting a round head with a protruding, rectangular beak and recessed eyes. An annular opening at the top of the bird's head leads to the hollow interior of the vessel. Size: 12.1" L x 9" W x 9.1" H (30.7 cm x 22.9 cm x 23.1 cm)

The iconography of these waterfowl was symbolic since ducks were viewed as sacred animals of the watery realm and the sky world as they could both dive deep under water and fly long distances through the air. The Colima were a shaft tomb culture and this duck effigy perhaps acted as a spirit guardian for the deceased.

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection; ex-Heritage Auction, Dallas, Texas, USA, 2013 November 15 American Indian & Pre-Columbian Art Signature Auction - Dallas #5161, lot #50391

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#170295

Repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines. Restoration to bill. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions throughout, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice.