Colima Vessel in the Form of a Dog - PF.2426,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 7.25" (18.4cm) high x 11.25" (28.6cm) wide,Catalogue: V12,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. One of the most exciting 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 of artistic sensitivity, as revealed in this exquisite dog- effigy vessel. Originally created as a burial object, this canine's function was to accompany the deceased on his or her journey to the afterlife, the dog's spirit acting as both guide and guard. This particular dog is a member of the breed called the Mexican hairless. Its wrinkled gray skin, the color of stone, gave it the ancient name of Techichi (Tezl meaning 'stone,' chichi meaning 'dog'). Poised on short stubby legs, this charming Techichi maneuvers his body into a 'U' shape, giving us a view of both his lively face and wigging tale. A portion of the dog's upper back forms the vessel's large spout. An extraordinary example of Colima artistry, this sculpted canine expresses most vividly an ancient people's extreme regard for, and intimate relationship with the natural world that surrounded them.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico