Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec culture, ca. 1200 to 800 BCE. A hollow-built pottery baby figure with dramatically outstretched arms and legs. Faint red pigment imbue the characteristic "baby face" with a sense of realism while a puffy coiffure creates a stylized presentation. The elongated form of the skull was a recurring theme with depictions of Olmec infants as it was a sign of status, royalty, or having been born with special powers. Size: 2.75" L x 7.125" W x 9.1" H (7 cm x 18.1 cm x 23.1 cm)

The Olmec are famous for their human depictions; as the first major civilization in this fertile area, their artwork inspired the civilizations that came after them to the point that we think some of them even revered Olmec artwork and kept it as heirlooms. Figures of this style are known as "baby face," with plump bodies and chubby, pouty facial features. Infants are a recurring theme from Olmec art, and this one would likely have once been white-slipped to match other known examples. The shape of their heads - like this one - have been attributed to deliberate skull shaping. For an interesting article about Olmec baby figures see "Olmec Babies as Early Portraiture in the Americas" by James Doyle, Assistant Curator, Department of the Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, April 17, 2015.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance: private Ojai, California, USA collection, by inheritance, collected before 2000

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#179642

Repaired as shown, with infill material along some larger fissures, and adhesive residue along many break lines. Light abrasions, fading to pigment, chipping to some areas, and light earthen deposits, otherwise in great condition. Nice preservation to charming figural form. TL drill holes beneath base, along back of head, and below proper right ear.