Colima Vessel in the Form of a Coiled Serpent - PF.1342,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 3.25" (8.3cm) high x 9.125" (23.2cm) wide,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. For far longer than memory records, man has been fascinated by the serpent. Sometimes feared, sometimes worshiped, the snake appears as a major protangonist in all the world's mythologies. In ancient Mexico, the snake (especially the desert rattler) was thought to have magical powers and contacts with the spirit world. With scales picked out by rough stippling, this coiled serpent radiates a latent energy, as if both he and we are aware of his lethal potential. His wide grin could be interpreted either as a sign of a benevolence or warning. Centuries have passed since this image was created, but it continues to exert a strong hold on our emotions, touching something very primal and mysterious.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico