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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Chinesco Style : Chinesco Style (Type C) Nayarit Terracotta Sculpture of a Seated Man
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Chinesco Style (Type C) Nayarit Terracotta Sculpture of a Seated Man - PF.4540
Origin: Nayarit, Mexico
Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
7.25" (18.4cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: UAE
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| Description |
The ceramic objects of Western Mexico constitute
some of the most original and endearing works
of art found anywhere in the world. If art is a
mirror of both artist and people for whom the art
was made, then the ancient people of Nayarit
possessed great charm, humor and compassion.
These priceless qualities of human nature, when
combined with artistic talent, can make an
inanimate object come alive with character and a
personality all its own. As if casually resting
after a long walk, this very charming fellow
immediately captivates our attention. But what is
it that we find so entrancing about him? The
striking broad slashes of black in a V-shape
over his eyes seem in direct contrast to his calm
exterior. The multiple lines in positive-negative
arrangement on his cheeks, chin and other parts
of his body represent either scarification or
tattooing typical of such figures. What is rare,
however, is the imprint of a hand over the man's
left breast, just above his heart. There is
something wonderfully powerful and poignant in
this simple sign; recalling similar effects in cave
paintings. Found in a tomb this vessel was
probably made for a specific purpose, perhaps to
hold potions of a Shaman. The figure appears to
be in a trance and may well be a sorcerer on a
vision quest. On a technical level, this vessel is
typically Nayarit, with its abstract quality, long
ropes for arms and triangular head of the
Chinesco Type D. But, it is much more than that.
In this male figure we see a human being of
delicate sensibilities and dignity, possessed of a
deeper mystery, which reflects the loveliest
qualities in ourselves, and of the human race.
- (PF.4540)
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