Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A very fine and large, hand built and hand painted, bichrome pottery male seated warrior figure supported by his bent legs and a back support (resulting in a tripod arrangement). This fierce combatant proudly wields a club with both hands and wears a horned, striped helmet, a large nose ornament adorned with an intricate pattern, double-pointed ear ornaments, a six-strand 'beaded' necklace, and protective barrel armor decorated with a wavy striped pattern matching that of his weapon. All is painted in a rich palette of red and white hues. The warrior possesses a characteristically elongated face covered with striated tattoos - with a pronounced nose, incised lozenge shaped eyes, and a half-open mouth of a similar form, all classic traits of the Nayarit style, as are his attenuated arms. A fabulous example, replete with an impressive form, extensive garb and accoutrements, fine painting technique, and a meaningful purpose serving as protector of the deceased. Size: 7.875" W x 16.625" H (20 cm x 42.2 cm)

Elite individuals of the Nayarit culture were buried in shaft tombs consisting of a large chamber at the bottom of a deep pit. These shaft tombs were typically furnished with precious grave goods including ceramic vessels and sculptures like this statue of warrior, with the intention of accompanying, serving, and/or protecting the deceased.

Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired over twenty years ago

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#123031

Repaired from multiple pieces with visible fixative at the break lines.