Colima Terracotta Funerary Mask - PF.2308, Origin: Western Mexico, Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD, Dimensions: 7.75" (19.7cm) high, Catalogue: V6, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Colima, Medium: Terracotta. One of the most magnificent Pre-Columbian art styles belongs to the ancient artisans of the pacific coast region of Mexico that lies in the shadow of the 13,000-foot-high volcano, "Colima". The full flourishing of the Colima art style produced masterpieces, such as this terracotta funerary mask, that are among the high points in pre-Columbian art. The sculptors brilliantly solved the technical problems inherent in clay and transcended the limitations of their medium. The smooth and shiny tactile quality of this mask coupled with an extraordinary sense of mysterious presence invites us to envision the mystical ritual that this mask most certainly played a role in. In an ancient nocturnal setting, the moon's ancient and haunting rays can still be imagined shining on the mask's glossy surface. This is a face, simple of line but complex of spirit that continues to evoke emotion over the centuries. Who was the face behind the mask? We may never know. But the spirit of that individual will be with us forever in the spirit of this powerful mask.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico