Ancient West Mexican Terracotta Ritual Figure Head | Nayarit / Jalisco | Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico / Mesoamerica (likely Nayarit or Jalisco Shaft Tomb Culture)
Material: Hand-molded terracotta clay with traces of original pigment
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A powerful and expressive ancient Pre-Columbian terracotta ceremonial figure fragment, depicting an elite or ritual individual wearing an imposing tall cylindrical headdress and large earspools. This hollow sculptural head was originally part of a larger ceremonial vessel, figure, or burial object, crafted with strong facial features including pronounced nose, heavy-lidded eyes, and deeply modeled mouth, typical of West Mexican sculptural aesthetics associated with tomb offerings and ancestral veneration.
The interior is hollow, with a wide open cylindrical form extending through the figure, suggesting ritual use such as incense burning, ceremonial placement, or possibly as part of a funerary effigy. The surface retains beautiful ancient earthen deposits and subtle traces of red pigment, enhancing its authenticity, presence, and visual impact.
Features
- Tall cylindrical headdress
- Hollow-bodied ceremonial construction
- Strong sculptural facial detailing
- Large ear ornaments and draped collar elements
- Traces of ancient burial patina and pigment
Cultural Significance
Figures of this type were traditionally placed within elite shaft tombs and ceremonial spaces, serving as spiritual guardians, depictions of ancestors, priests, or important cultural figures. They represent artistic and religious expression in ancient West Mexican societies.
Condition
Ancient surface wear consistent with great age. Stable with expected losses and historical breaks typical of excavated examples. Displays beautifully and remains a striking and important cultural artifact.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6 inches
Width: 5.75 inches
Age
Approximately 1,700 – 2,300 years old
Learn More
Learn more about West Mexican ceramic traditions, ritual figures, and cultural context:
West Mexican Terracotta Figures – Textile Museum of Canada
Explore more authentic Pre-Columbian artifacts in our curated collection:
Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico / Mesoamerica (likely Nayarit or Jalisco Shaft Tomb Culture)
Material: Hand-molded terracotta clay with traces of original pigment
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A powerful and expressive ancient Pre-Columbian terracotta ceremonial figure fragment, depicting an elite or ritual individual wearing an imposing tall cylindrical headdress and large earspools. This hollow sculptural head was originally part of a larger ceremonial vessel, figure, or burial object, crafted with strong facial features including pronounced nose, heavy-lidded eyes, and deeply modeled mouth, typical of West Mexican sculptural aesthetics associated with tomb offerings and ancestral veneration.
The interior is hollow, with a wide open cylindrical form extending through the figure, suggesting ritual use such as incense burning, ceremonial placement, or possibly as part of a funerary effigy. The surface retains beautiful ancient earthen deposits and subtle traces of red pigment, enhancing its authenticity, presence, and visual impact.
Features
- Tall cylindrical headdress
- Hollow-bodied ceremonial construction
- Strong sculptural facial detailing
- Large ear ornaments and draped collar elements
- Traces of ancient burial patina and pigment
Cultural Significance
Figures of this type were traditionally placed within elite shaft tombs and ceremonial spaces, serving as spiritual guardians, depictions of ancestors, priests, or important cultural figures. They represent artistic and religious expression in ancient West Mexican societies.
Condition
Ancient surface wear consistent with great age. Stable with expected losses and historical breaks typical of excavated examples. Displays beautifully and remains a striking and important cultural artifact.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 6 inches
Width: 5.75 inches
Age
Approximately 1,700 – 2,300 years old
Learn More
Learn more about West Mexican ceramic traditions, ritual figures, and cultural context:
West Mexican Terracotta Figures – Textile Museum of Canada
Explore more authentic Pre-Columbian artifacts in our curated collection:
Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics
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