Pre-Columbian | West Mexico Terracotta Seated Drummer Figure | Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
More
Less
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient West Mexico (likely Nayarit or Jalisco Shaft Tomb Culture)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A beautifully expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta figure depicting a seated drummer, crafted with the distinctive stylized facial features, elaborate headgear, and ornamented body characteristic of West Mexican shaft-tomb artistry. The figure sits cross-legged while striking a ceremonial drum, conveying movement, rhythm, and ritual presence.
Features
- Detailed facial modeling with pronounced nose and ear ornaments
- Necklace and arm adornments suggesting status or ritual significance
- Hands carefully positioned over a tall drum form
- Warm earthen surface with traces of original ancient patina
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this are strongly associated with ritual, ceremony, music, ancestor veneration, and elite funerary practices. They are emblematic of West Mexico’s rich artistic tradition and spiritual symbolism.
Condition
Expected age wear consistent with antiquity. Minor surface weathering, small losses and ancient encrustations present. Overall structurally stable and very displayable.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 4.75 in
Base Footprint: 2 in x 2 in
Age
Over 1,500 years old (circa 300 BCE – 300 CE)
Learn More
Explore the cultural world of ancient Mesoamerica, its civilizations, belief systems, and artistic traditions in Mesoamerican Civilization – Encyclopedia Britannica
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 (likely Nayarit or Jalisco Shaft Tomb Culture)
Material: Hand-modeled terracotta clay
Period: Circa 300 BCE – 300 CE
Description
A beautifully expressive Pre-Columbian terracotta figure depicting a seated drummer, crafted with the distinctive stylized facial features, elaborate headgear, and ornamented body characteristic of West Mexican shaft-tomb artistry. The figure sits cross-legged while striking a ceremonial drum, conveying movement, rhythm, and ritual presence.
Features
- Detailed facial modeling with pronounced nose and ear ornaments
- Necklace and arm adornments suggesting status or ritual significance
- Hands carefully positioned over a tall drum form
- Warm earthen surface with traces of original ancient patina
Cultural Significance
Figures such as this are strongly associated with ritual, ceremony, music, ancestor veneration, and elite funerary practices. They are emblematic of West Mexico’s rich artistic tradition and spiritual symbolism.
Condition
Expected age wear consistent with antiquity. Minor surface weathering, small losses and ancient encrustations present. Overall structurally stable and very displayable.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 4.75 in
Base Footprint: 2 in x 2 in
Age
Over 1,500 years old (circa 300 BCE – 300 CE)
Learn More
Explore the cultural world of ancient Mesoamerica, its civilizations, belief systems, and artistic traditions in Mesoamerican Civilization – Encyclopedia Britannica
Discover more authentic Pre-Columbian relics and artifacts in our curated Ancient Pre-Columbian Artifacts & Relics Collection
You May Also Like