Colima Vessel in the Form of a Standing Dog - PF.2442,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 9.25" (23.5cm) high x 6.5" (16.5cm) wide,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. One of the most exciting and expressive Pre- Columbian art styles belongs to a group of people who lived in the pacific region of Ancient Mexico close to the 13,000-foot-high volcano 'Colima.' Here, artisans modeled in clay a rich assortment of animal and plant figures, a striking example of which is revealed in this dog-effigy vessel. Portrayed with exceptional realism, this canine was created as a burial object, its function to accompany the deceased on his or her long journey to the afterlife, the dog's spirit acting as both guide and guard. This particular breed of ancient canine is known as the Mexican hairless, its wrinkled gray skin the color of stone giving it the ancient name of Techichi (Tetl meaning 'stone,' Chichi meaning 'dog'). Poised on all fours with spout-shaped tail upright, ears perked and mouth open, this Techichi appears to be suspended in motion. One can almost see his ever-alert ears twitching and hear his high- pitched bark, as he attentively guides his master through the journey to the afterlife, the visible teeth further enhancing his protective nature. A stunning example of Colima artistry, this sculpted canine expresses most ardently an ancient people's extreme regard for, and intimate relationship with the natural world that surrounded them. Today, the spirit of this canine most certainly lives on--we need only gaze into the face of this Techichi to experience its age- old guardian powers.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico