Jalisco Terracotta Conch Shell Effigy Trumpet - PF.1987,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD,Dimensions: 9.5" (24.1cm) wide,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Jalisco,Medium: Terracotta. Echoing the graceful forms of the sea shell, this man-made object gives us a new appreciation for nature's engineering skills. Throughtout Ancient America, the Conch shell was prized for its rarity and beauty. Blown as a trumpet, it heralded the approach of royalty, and thus the Conch came to symbolize power and rank. The person in whose tomb this remarkable effigy was buried was no doubt someone of high stature. Perhaps the trumpet was blown as a mark of respect during their funeral procession. If we listen carefully, we can almost hear the melancholy notes drifting through the sunset.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico