Lot 122
Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Jalisco, Ameca-Etzatlan style, Protoclassic Period, ca. 100 BCE to 250 CE. Rendered with bold proportions and striking presence, this hand-modeled ceramic figure depicts a semi-nude woman seated in a formal, frontal pose. Her posture is upright and grounded, legs folded beneath her, as she balances a shallow bowl of food or fruit atop her left shoulder - likely a ceremonial offering or emblem of abundance. The figure's torso is bare, with prominent breasts and clearly defined nipples, asserting a sense of feminine fertility and physical vitality. Her right hand presses against her abdomen in a gesture that may signal self-presentation, modesty, or ritual intent. Her face, with a long triangular nose, open eyes, and gently parted lips exposing delineated teeth, is framed by a pronounced head wrap or coiffure, extending over the brow and toward the nape in a sweeping curve. Size: 6.1" L x 8.3" W x 13.3" H (15.5 cm x 21.1 cm x 33.8 cm)
Figures of this type are characteristic of the Jalisco tradition within the broader West Mexican shaft tomb culture, and were often placed in graves as symbolic companions for the deceased. Their exaggerated forms, expressive faces, and dynamic poses were likely intended to serve both protective and representational functions - perhaps embodying lineage, status, or ancestral presence. The bowl may reference the female role as provider, caretaker, or ritual participant.
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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#194426
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done expertly and incredibly difficult to notice. Light surface wear as shown, but otherwise, impressive presentation with nice detail and manganese deposits in areas.
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