Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A finely modeled redware pottery figure depicting a seated nude female, rendered with the distinctive abstract naturalism characteristic of Colima sculpture. The woman sits with bent legs and hands resting upon her thighs, her back straight and head held erect beneath a smooth, helmet-like coiffure. Her face bears a calm and introspective expression, with elongated eyes, a straight nose, and full lips subtly defined. The body is modeled with a rounded fullness, emphasizing the hips and abdomen, and the genitalia are clearly delineated - an anatomical detail that may relate to fertility or life-giving symbolism. The figure's polished red surface reveals the Colima potter's mastery of form and finish, creating a sensuous interplay of light across the burnished clay. Figures such as this were typically interred in shaft tombs as companions for the deceased, embodying fertility, continuity, and the spiritual vitality of human existence. Size: 5.8" L x 8.9" W x 15.5" H (14.7 cm x 22.6 cm x 39.4 cm)

Both intimate and monumental in presence, this sculpture reflects the Colima tradition's profound balance between abstraction and realism, celebrating the human form as both earthly and sacred.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private Estate collection, Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; ex-Harner collection, acquired 1950 to 1960

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#197633

  • Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines. Some chipping to ears and light surface wear as shown, as well as areas of fire darkening. Otherwise, nice presentation with good remaining pigments and rich earthen deposits to interior.

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December 5, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$2,000 $4,999 $250
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$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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