Pre-Columbian | West Mexican Terracotta Head Fragment | Circa 300 BCE–300 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
This expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment represents the sculptural traditions of ancient West Mexico, likely associated with the Nayarit or Jalisco shaft tomb cultures. The face is dramatically characterized by bold sculptural form, almond-shaped eyes, prominent lips, and a distinctive headdress with rounded, raised detailing. Fragments such as this originally belonged to larger ceremonial figures representing ancestors, ritual participants, or socially important individuals.
The warm earthen tones, textured clay surface, and time-worn patina reflect centuries of burial, preservation, and rediscovery. Mounted on a modern museum-style display base, the piece retains remarkable visual power and artistic presence despite its fragmentary nature.
Features
- Authentic Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment
- Distinctive stylized facial features and ceremonial headdress
- Attractive ancient surface textures and patina
- Mounted for elegant museum-quality display
- Strong cultural identity and sculptural character
Cultural Significance
Figures from this cultural tradition were placed within deep shaft tombs and are believed to have served ancestral, spiritual, and protective functions. They offer a powerful connection to the ritual life, beliefs, and artistic achievements of ancient West Mexican civilizations.
Condition
Displays expected age-related surface wear, mineral deposits, and burial patina. Evidence of stable historic restoration and visible cracklines primarily along the lower portion and back, consistent with archaeological recovery. Presents beautifully with strong display presence.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height (including stand): 5.75 in
Base: 2 in × 2 in
Age
Estimated over 1,500 years old — Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Learn More
Explore the artistic sophistication, cultural identity, and ceremonial meaning of ancient West Mexican sculpture in Pre-Columbian Art of Mexico – Mingei International Museum
Discover more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and culturally significant artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
This expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment represents the sculptural traditions of ancient West Mexico, likely associated with the Nayarit or Jalisco shaft tomb cultures. The face is dramatically characterized by bold sculptural form, almond-shaped eyes, prominent lips, and a distinctive headdress with rounded, raised detailing. Fragments such as this originally belonged to larger ceremonial figures representing ancestors, ritual participants, or socially important individuals.
The warm earthen tones, textured clay surface, and time-worn patina reflect centuries of burial, preservation, and rediscovery. Mounted on a modern museum-style display base, the piece retains remarkable visual power and artistic presence despite its fragmentary nature.
Features
- Authentic Pre-Columbian terracotta head fragment
- Distinctive stylized facial features and ceremonial headdress
- Attractive ancient surface textures and patina
- Mounted for elegant museum-quality display
- Strong cultural identity and sculptural character
Cultural Significance
Figures from this cultural tradition were placed within deep shaft tombs and are believed to have served ancestral, spiritual, and protective functions. They offer a powerful connection to the ritual life, beliefs, and artistic achievements of ancient West Mexican civilizations.
Condition
Displays expected age-related surface wear, mineral deposits, and burial patina. Evidence of stable historic restoration and visible cracklines primarily along the lower portion and back, consistent with archaeological recovery. Presents beautifully with strong display presence.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height (including stand): 5.75 in
Base: 2 in × 2 in
Age
Estimated over 1,500 years old — Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Learn More
Explore the artistic sophistication, cultural identity, and ceremonial meaning of ancient West Mexican sculpture in Pre-Columbian Art of Mexico – Mingei International Museum
Discover more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and culturally significant artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
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