Pre-Columbian | Terracotta Zoomorphic Effigy Figure | Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica (likely West Mexico region)
Material: Hand-formed terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE (Western Mexican Shaft Tomb Culture period – likely)
Description
A charming and expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta zoomorphic effigy, beautifully formed in the stylized shape of a small animal, possibly representing a rodent, small mammal, or symbolic spirit-animal figure. Sculpted in warm earthen clay tones, the piece displays soft surface smoothing, subtle detailing to the limbs and head, and a forward-projecting snout that gives the figure personality and life.
The underside features an opening consistent with ritual or functional effigy whistles and ceremonial figurines of the period, suggesting this may once have served a sound-producing or spiritual purpose. Mounted on a modern display base for presentation.
Features
- Hand-modeled ancient terracotta zoomorphic effigy
- Distinctive stylized head, tail, and body form
- Pierced opening indicative of ritual or sound-instrument use
- Beautiful ancient earthen patina
Cultural Significance
Pre-Columbian effigy figurines were far more than decorative objects. They served as spiritual companions, ritual tools, offerings to ancestors, and symbolic protectors. Zoomorphic forms were especially meaningful, representing natural power, fertility, guidance, guardianship, or transformation.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition with expected age-related wear, encrustations, mineral deposits, and surface weathering. No modern repairs detected. Mounted on a modern base for safe display.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 5.25 in
Diameter: 9 in
Age
Approximately 1,500–2,000 years old
Learn More
Discover the archaeological background, funerary traditions, and cultural importance of West Mexican effigy figures in Western Mexican Shaft Tombs – Trafficking Culture Case Study
Explore more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica (likely West Mexico region)
Material: Hand-formed terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE (Western Mexican Shaft Tomb Culture period – likely)
Description
A charming and expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta zoomorphic effigy, beautifully formed in the stylized shape of a small animal, possibly representing a rodent, small mammal, or symbolic spirit-animal figure. Sculpted in warm earthen clay tones, the piece displays soft surface smoothing, subtle detailing to the limbs and head, and a forward-projecting snout that gives the figure personality and life.
The underside features an opening consistent with ritual or functional effigy whistles and ceremonial figurines of the period, suggesting this may once have served a sound-producing or spiritual purpose. Mounted on a modern display base for presentation.
Features
- Hand-modeled ancient terracotta zoomorphic effigy
- Distinctive stylized head, tail, and body form
- Pierced opening indicative of ritual or sound-instrument use
- Beautiful ancient earthen patina
Cultural Significance
Pre-Columbian effigy figurines were far more than decorative objects. They served as spiritual companions, ritual tools, offerings to ancestors, and symbolic protectors. Zoomorphic forms were especially meaningful, representing natural power, fertility, guidance, guardianship, or transformation.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition with expected age-related wear, encrustations, mineral deposits, and surface weathering. No modern repairs detected. Mounted on a modern base for safe display.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 5.25 in
Diameter: 9 in
Age
Approximately 1,500–2,000 years old
Learn More
Discover the archaeological background, funerary traditions, and cultural importance of West Mexican effigy figures in Western Mexican Shaft Tombs – Trafficking Culture Case Study
Explore more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
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