Pre-Columbian Terracotta Warrior | Ritual Participant Figure | Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica (likely Nayarit / Jalisco tradition)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay with mineral accretions
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A striking ancient West Mexican standing figure, modeled with remarkable character and presence. The figure displays the classic stylized facial features of the region, including a pronounced nose, almond-shaped eyes, and defined lips. He wears an elaborate wrapped headdress and decorative ear ornaments, and his body is adorned with modeled elements at the waist and limbs. The figure is presented holding rounded forms in his arms — possibly ritual offerings, symbolic objects, or representations of food or ceremonial items.
This sculpture embodies the powerful sculptural tradition of West Mexico, where figurines such as this were deeply connected to ritual, belief, honor, and ancestral memory.
Features
- Distinctive wrapped headdress
- Detailed body adornments and belt elements
- Strong sculptural stance
- Ancient mineral encrustations enhancing authenticity and ritual presence
- Mounted on a custom display base
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this are believed to have held ceremonial, symbolic, or funerary importance within ancient West Mexican cultures. They may have represented ancestors, community leaders, ceremonial participants, or spiritual guardians, intended to accompany and protect in life or death.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition with expected age wear, surface weathering, and encrustations consistent with burial and antiquity. Professionally mounted for display.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 7.5 in
Age (Approximate)
1,700–2,300 years old
Learn More
Learn about West Mexican terracotta figures at the Textile Museum of Canada
Browse our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica (likely Nayarit / Jalisco tradition)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay with mineral accretions
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A striking ancient West Mexican standing figure, modeled with remarkable character and presence. The figure displays the classic stylized facial features of the region, including a pronounced nose, almond-shaped eyes, and defined lips. He wears an elaborate wrapped headdress and decorative ear ornaments, and his body is adorned with modeled elements at the waist and limbs. The figure is presented holding rounded forms in his arms — possibly ritual offerings, symbolic objects, or representations of food or ceremonial items.
This sculpture embodies the powerful sculptural tradition of West Mexico, where figurines such as this were deeply connected to ritual, belief, honor, and ancestral memory.
Features
- Distinctive wrapped headdress
- Detailed body adornments and belt elements
- Strong sculptural stance
- Ancient mineral encrustations enhancing authenticity and ritual presence
- Mounted on a custom display base
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this are believed to have held ceremonial, symbolic, or funerary importance within ancient West Mexican cultures. They may have represented ancestors, community leaders, ceremonial participants, or spiritual guardians, intended to accompany and protect in life or death.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition with expected age wear, surface weathering, and encrustations consistent with burial and antiquity. Professionally mounted for display.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 7.5 in
Age (Approximate)
1,700–2,300 years old
Learn More
Learn about West Mexican terracotta figures at the Textile Museum of Canada
Browse our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
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