Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A large, hand-built pottery dog vessel that is highly burnished and covered in deep red slip. Standing, but almost squatting on four short legs, the rounded body is plump, with a short-curled tail and a head jutting forward with the flared spout positioned between the perked ears. The face has an expression of fierce alertness, with incised lines forming the wide eyes, nose, and the exposed teeth, bared in a snarl. Colima vessels such as this one, were buried in shaft tombs to protect the deceased and provide sustenance for eternity. This vessel is practically the size of a life-sized pup! A fierce companion for the afterlife, with vibrant surface hues and beautiful details. Size: 16.25" L x 7.875" W x 12.31" H (41.3 cm x 20 cm x 31.3 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 Chichi or Escuintla, is thought to be related to the Chihuahua or the Mexican Hairless also known as the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xoloitzcuintle was named for the deity Xolotl, the God of the Underworld, and was believed to guide the deceased as they journeyed to the afterlife. This vessel could certainly hold a great number of offerings, and the size of the dog is impressive for an effigy figure, and certainly one can imagine how it would have discouraged any evil spirits from interfering with the deceased.

Provenance: private Arcadia, California, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000

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#159547

Professionally repaired from approximately 15 pieces, with restoration over the break lines. Restoration to right front paw on the bottom and to the edge. Dime-sized area of restoration to the stomach. Surface wear and minor abrasions as expected with age. Nice mineral deposits as well as burnishing and root marks!