|
HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
San Sebastián Style : San Sebastián Style Nayarit Terracotta Sculpture of a Seated Woman
|
 |
|
|
|
San Sebastián Style Nayarit Terracotta Sculpture of a Seated Woman - PF.2947
Origin: Nayarit, Mexico
Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
14.25" (36.2cm) high
x 9.75" (24.8cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$6,000.00
Location: United States
|
|
|
| Photo Gallery |
|
|
| Description |
This proud-seated female figure is a remarkable
example of late pre-classical Nayarit beauty.
Made of burnished, fired clay, the female figure
displays smooth, elegantly finished surf ace. She
also shows well-defined physical features as well
as decorative enhancements. She shows cranial
deformation, a sign of noble beauty, bold eyes
and a large nose. Her hair is represented with
finely controlled incision lines, indicating well-
combed hair. She also wears various jewelry such
as a detailed neckpiece and numerous earrings.
Unlike other neighboring cultures during the late
pre-classic period, people of Nayarit region wore
true earrings, not just earplugs. Her shoulders
are decorated with scarification, a fascinating
technique of raising the skin in a pattern by
inserting cords underneath the skin. Despite
these graceful features, the artist of the figure
did not overly idealize the beauty but honestly
showed the disproportionate shoulders. Perhaps
due to some ailment, the figure's right shoulder
is much larger than the left. This expression of
human imperfection reflects Meso-American
religious belief in humans’ humble position in
the world. The female figure places her
simplified hands on both sides of her torso, as if
she is displaying pride in her belly. Her large
torso, breasts, and thighs suggest importance of
fertility and rebirth. The graceful lady, thus, not
only illustrates beauty but she also holds the
cherished belief in fertility.
- (PF.2947)
|
| |
|
