Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. What an expressive Colima puppy - quite endearing for its corpulent body, incised toothy muzzle, alert and perky ears, coffee bean shaped eyes, and wagging tail! Interestingly, this one presents a bony spine despite its plump body type. A fabulous example of this traditional Colima dog effigy vessel with a wide, flared spout, comprised of nicely burnished redware. Size: 9.25" L x 8.75" H (23.5 cm x 22.2 cm)

Scholars know of at least two types of Colima dogs, one to be fattened up and ritually sacrificed or eaten and one to serve as a watchdog and healer of the ill. This plump hairless canine known as a Techichi or Escuincle is thought to be related to the Chihuahua or Mexican Hairless also known as the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xolo dog was named for the deity Xolotl, the God of the Underworld, and believed to guide the deceased as they journeyed to the afterlife. Colima vessels such as this one were buried in shaft tombs to protect the deceased and provide sustenance for eternity. Note the wonderful manganese blooms and gorgeous burnished finish.

Provenance: Ex-Dr. G. Hermann collection, Denver, CO, USA acquired before 1980

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#118958

Tail reattached. Losses to spout, tip of tail, tip of left ear, right front foot, and rear feet. Expected surface wear. Nice manganese deposits.