Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, Chinesco, Protoclassic period, ca. 100 BCE to 250 CE. A wonderful terracotta female figure in Chinesco style -representing some of the most desirable West Mexican pottery available! Bare-chested with a loincloth covering her lower body, the stylized female sits with hands on hips and bulbous thighs spread, exuding empowered confidence while also highlighting her feminine form and relation to fertility. Leaning forward, she displays a huge head with a serene and meditative countenance of coffee bean-shaped eyes, a pointed nose adorned with a septum ring, and an incised smile. Her elaborate body paint as well as necklace and bangles indicate that she is likely of a heightened social status. A strong example of Nayarit sculptural sophistication and Chinesco style! Size: 10.2" W x 10.3" H (25.9 cm x 26.2 cm)

This style of sculpture is known as Chinesco by collectors because of its stylistic similarities to Chinese art. Clay figures like this one 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. Instead, their tombs were their lasting works of art: skeletons arrayed radially with their feet positioned inward, and clay offerings, like this one, placed alongside the walls facing inward, near the skulls.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#173367

Professionally repaired and restored with some areas of overpainting. Nicks and abrasions as shown, but overall excellent presentation with nice remaining pigments. Probe holes to base and verso of head.