Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Jalisco, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A sizeable hand-built terracotta figure seated with crossed legs, a flat back and a wide torso, all colored in a deep-red slip with extensive detailing in a creamy white hue. A cylindrical drum is placed at his feet and has a flat top, typically made from stretched animal hide, two circular tone holes, and white-painted linear and dot motifs. While the drummer hits the drum with his right hand, he holds another instrument - a whistle perhaps - to his lips with his left hand. His visage showcases characteristic sheepface features such as a prominent nose, pointed ears, a petite mouth, and a tall forehead with a curved an elaborate headdress. Details adorning his single shoulder-strapped chest covering, beaded necklace, circular ear ornaments, headdress, and drum are all painted in a creamy white pigment. An attractive shaft-tomb pottery figure demonstrating the West Mexican appreciation for music - whether played for ceremonial purposes or entertainment. Size: 5.125" W x 9.125" H (13 cm x 23.2 cm)

Provenance: private Stagecoach, Nevada, USA collection; acquired from 1985 to present from galleries such as Arte Primitivo, Art For Eternity, Butterfields, and Riverbend Gallery

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#128686

Normal surface wear with minor areas of pigment loss commensurate with age. Wonderful manganese deposits. Rootmarks particularly evident on interior of drum. Old inventory label on underside.