This standing, pregnant female figure is an
extraordinary example of the Pre-Columbian
ceramic artistry created in the west Mexico state
of Jalisco. From this region comes some of the
most spirited and unique clay sculptures, which
today have assumed an important and valuable
place in the history of world art. Created to
accompany the deceased on his or her long
journey to the afterlife, the spirit of sculptures
such as this appear to have performed a variety
of duties, although their specific functions still
remain unclear. Perhaps this delightful, pregnant
figure represented the wish by the deceased for
a long and fertile afterlife; since the figures
distended belly and enlarged breasts are clearly
her most prominent features. With a wide legged
stance and hands placed on her stomach, the
figure appears in a notably animated and
pregnant posture as well. We can almost see her
skirt moving against her belly as she waddles
toward us, the extra weight of the baby forcing
her body to sway gently from side to side. When
combined with her large earrings, armbands and
shoulders adorned with the clustered marks of
scarification, she presents an altogether
captivating, fruitful and communicative image. A
delight to behold and a joy to ponder, she
conveys to us at once all that is creative and
worthwhile in this life.
- (PF.2474)
|
