Pre-Columbian West Mexico Burial Figure | Seated Anthropomorphic | Terracotta | Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta with mineral deposits and surface patina
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A powerful and expressive Pre-Columbian seated figure, modeled in terracotta and retaining traces of ancient pigment and surface encrustation from centuries of burial. The figure sits compactly with bent arms and legs drawn inward, the head slightly tilted, and the facial features rendered in the distinctive stylized manner of West Mexican shaft-tomb artistry. The sculptural posture conveys both presence and quiet intensity, reflecting ritual, spiritual, and ancestral symbolism.
Features
- Seated anthropomorphic terracotta figure
- Strong stylized facial character with defined brow, nose, and mouth
- Traces of ancient pigment visible in recessed areas
- Beautiful encrusted surface attesting to great antiquity
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this were traditionally placed within elite burials and ceremonial contexts, believed to serve ritual, protective, spiritual, or ancestral functions. Today, they stand as evocative links to the belief systems, funerary customs, and artistic expression of early Mesoamerican civilizations.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition for age with expected surface wear, minor losses, and stable age-related encrustation. No modern repairs detected. Presents with a strong archaeological presence.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Base Footprint: 2 in x 2 in
Age
Approximately 1,700–2,300 years old
Learn More
Explore the artistic heritage and cultural significance of ancient Pre-Columbian civilizations in Pre-Columbian Art – Artsy
Discover more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient West Mexico, Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta with mineral deposits and surface patina
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A powerful and expressive Pre-Columbian seated figure, modeled in terracotta and retaining traces of ancient pigment and surface encrustation from centuries of burial. The figure sits compactly with bent arms and legs drawn inward, the head slightly tilted, and the facial features rendered in the distinctive stylized manner of West Mexican shaft-tomb artistry. The sculptural posture conveys both presence and quiet intensity, reflecting ritual, spiritual, and ancestral symbolism.
Features
- Seated anthropomorphic terracotta figure
- Strong stylized facial character with defined brow, nose, and mouth
- Traces of ancient pigment visible in recessed areas
- Beautiful encrusted surface attesting to great antiquity
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this were traditionally placed within elite burials and ceremonial contexts, believed to serve ritual, protective, spiritual, or ancestral functions. Today, they stand as evocative links to the belief systems, funerary customs, and artistic expression of early Mesoamerican civilizations.
Condition
Excellent ancient condition for age with expected surface wear, minor losses, and stable age-related encrustation. No modern repairs detected. Presents with a strong archaeological presence.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 3.75 in
Base Footprint: 2 in x 2 in
Age
Approximately 1,700–2,300 years old
Learn More
Explore the artistic heritage and cultural significance of ancient Pre-Columbian civilizations in Pre-Columbian Art – Artsy
Discover more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
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