The state of Colima, located in the pacific coast
region of West Mexico, supported a thriving
ancient culture, which between about 300 B.C.
and 600 A.D. produced a remarkable variety of
ceramic art. Although these people did not
develop monumental, ceremonial architecture
comparable to the high civilizations in Mexico,
the ancient inhabitants of Colima did produce a
spectacular array of art that is noted for its
expert rendering, astounding diversity and
imaginative portrayals. Nowhere is the stunning
imagination of the Colima artist better
represented than in this terracotta back rest.
Originally intended for burial with the dead,
serving as an accompaniment to the deceased on
his or her long journey to the afterlife, this
reclinatorio is rendered by the Colima artist as a
fascinating combination of animals. If we let our
imagination loose, we see that the front legs and
shoulders of a dog support the upright portion
of the back rest, while the large tail fin of a fish
comprises the back tripod leg. Small fins
protruding from the sides of the body further
accentuate the aquatic attributes of this unique
sculpture when viewed from behind. Two heads
emerge from the shoulders, facing in opposite
directions, which appear both auqatic and feline
depending what angle they are viewed from. A
truly charming and eclectic array of animal
images, this reclinatorio delights our senses
while at the same time challenges our inventive
imagination.
- (PF.4296)
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