Colima Sculpture of a Standing Shaman Warrior - PF.1919,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 14.25" (36.2cm) high,Catalogue: V8,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. The horn of power that adorns this warrior's helmet identifies him as a shaman, a magic man. Armed with an axe, he stands vigil against the unknown demons of the underworld. The cup he raises to his lips may contain some mind- altering drug to aid the transition into the realm of the spirits, or perhaps the blood of vanquished enemies. Such powerful figures were buried in the tombs of ancient Mexico to protect the deceased through eternity. In his presence, we recognize that certain fundamental questions about life and death remain unanswered in spite of the progress of civilization.
Antiquities Ancient Central America & Mexico
|