Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. An impressive hand-made pottery reclinatario depicting an abstract creature, perhaps a dolphin, a fish, or a bird. The front of the vessel is flat, though its walls bulge outwards on the verso. A hollow spout curves upward from the backside of the animal's head. Reclinatarios such as this were used by individuals of high rank to support their heads and backs when seated. This abstract type of form was perhaps to signify a metaphor for dreams which often assume surreal transitional states. In addition to this complex symbolism, the piece is a wonderful exemplar of Colima technique and styling. Size: 8.75" L x 7" W x 8.875" H (22.2 cm x 17.8 cm x 22.5 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

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#175221

  • Condition: Professional repair and restoration, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Abreasions and fading to pigment, with earthen deposits, and chips in scattered areas. Nice preservation to red pigment in most areas.

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August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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