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Pre-Columbian Art :
Nayarit Art : Nayarit Terracotta Figure
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Nayarit Terracotta Figure - DC.353
Origin: Western Mexico
Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
6" (15.2cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Style: Nayarit
Medium: Terracotta
$1,200.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
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The most striking works of the Nayarit subgroup
are the ceramics, which were usually placed in
graves, and do not seem to have performed any
practical function. It is possible that they were
designed to depict the deceased – they are often
very naturalistic – although it is more probable
that they constituted, when in groups, a retinue
of companions, protectors and servants for the
hereafter. Just as in other sophisticated social
systems around the world – such as the
Egyptians or Dynastic China – figures were made
to represent the sorts of people and resources
that might be needed in the hereafter. They were
in this sense symbolic of actual people, who
were buried with the deceased as retainers in
more sanguineous Central and Southern
American societies.
This small terracotta sculpture depicts a
standing figure holding their arms on their chest.
Facial features have been represented with
applique eyes, nose, mouth, and brows. Spikes
along the sides of the head suggest ears or hair,
and the lower spiky protrusions have been
pierced, implying they may have originally
contained earrings or other such adornments.
- (DC.353)
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