Colima Vessel in the Form of a Dog - PF.2035,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 7" (17.8cm) high x 12.5" (31.8cm) depth,,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. Plump and charming, this little dog stares at us with wide eyes. Perhaps he is a little uncertain of our intent. In the ancient world from which he comes, dogs served an ambivalent purpose. Not only were they companions and guardians, they also were occasionally eaten as a festive treat. It may have been for that reason that this rotund little canine was placed in a tomb. However, according to myth, dogs also served as guides along the path of the underworld. This little fellow seems to have strayed a bit, though his charms are such that we are happy to see him.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico