Lot 29A
Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A rare Colima pottery hunchback male figure, modeled with expressive anatomical detail and serving both as a sculptural effigy and vessel. The figure is depicted nude, seated with legs splayed apart and hands propped on bent knees, exposing delineated genitalia with an erect phallus. His back is dramatically arched to emphasize the protruding spine and ribcage, underscoring the physical deformity that in Colima culture was often associated with shamanic or spiritual power. The head bears a coiled headdress with a circular opening at the crown, transforming the sculpture into a functional container, likely used in ritual contexts. The serene, downcast facial expression, pierced ears, and strong posture convey an aura of authority, while the red slip surface, now worn with age, preserves the figure's ritual presence. Such hunchback figures are thought to have been important in funerary offerings, embodying liminality between the earthly and spiritual realms. Size: 6.1" L x 8.7" W x 11.5" H (15.5 cm x 22.1 cm x 29.2 cm)
PROVENANCE: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
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Item #
197091
- Condition: Excellent. Sits on slight wobble due to unevenness of rear and proper right leg, but figure still stands sturdily independent of support. Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done expertly and difficult to notice. Chipping with loss to proper left armband. Otherwise, excellent presentation with root marks to exterior and rich earthen deposits to interior.
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