Pre-Columbian Burial Figure Head, Hand-Modeled Terracotta | 300 BCE – 500 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico (likely Nayarit or Jalisco)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta with mineral accretions
Period: Pre-Columbian, circa 300 BCE – 500 CE
Description
This finely modeled terracotta head fragment comes from the shaft-tomb tradition of ancient West Mexico. Characterized by almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, and a stylized coiffure, the piece reflects the regional sculptural conventions of Nayarit and Jalisco. Originally part of a larger funerary figure, it would have served as a guardian or ancestral companion placed in elite tombs. The surface retains mineral deposits and encrustations from long burial, underscoring its antiquity. Now mounted on a custom black display base, the fragment presents as a striking and evocative artifact of Pre-Columbian ritual life.
Features
- Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment
- Almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, and stylized hair
- Burial encrustations and mineral deposits confirming authenticity
- Strong parallels with West Mexican shaft-tomb sculpture
- Mounted on a modern black display base
Cultural Significance
Terracotta heads and figures from West Mexico were integral to the shaft-tomb tradition, symbolizing ancestral veneration, fertility, and protection for the deceased. Their abstract yet expressive forms capture both the artistry and spiritual beliefs of early Mesoamerican societies. Today, they remain highly valued by collectors and museums for their cultural depth and historical resonance.
Condition
Fragmentary head only, body and neck absent. Surface wear, burial deposits, and patina consistent with age. Stable and securely mounted for display.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 2 in
Depth: 2 in
Age
Circa 300 BCE – 500 CE
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico (likely Nayarit or Jalisco)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta with mineral accretions
Period: Pre-Columbian, circa 300 BCE – 500 CE
Description
This finely modeled terracotta head fragment comes from the shaft-tomb tradition of ancient West Mexico. Characterized by almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, and a stylized coiffure, the piece reflects the regional sculptural conventions of Nayarit and Jalisco. Originally part of a larger funerary figure, it would have served as a guardian or ancestral companion placed in elite tombs. The surface retains mineral deposits and encrustations from long burial, underscoring its antiquity. Now mounted on a custom black display base, the fragment presents as a striking and evocative artifact of Pre-Columbian ritual life.
Features
- Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment
- Almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, and stylized hair
- Burial encrustations and mineral deposits confirming authenticity
- Strong parallels with West Mexican shaft-tomb sculpture
- Mounted on a modern black display base
Cultural Significance
Terracotta heads and figures from West Mexico were integral to the shaft-tomb tradition, symbolizing ancestral veneration, fertility, and protection for the deceased. Their abstract yet expressive forms capture both the artistry and spiritual beliefs of early Mesoamerican societies. Today, they remain highly valued by collectors and museums for their cultural depth and historical resonance.
Condition
Fragmentary head only, body and neck absent. Surface wear, burial deposits, and patina consistent with age. Stable and securely mounted for display.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Width: 2 in
Depth: 2 in
Age
Circa 300 BCE – 500 CE
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