One of the most magnificent Pre-Columbian art
styles belongs to the ancient artisans of the
Pacific Coast region of Mexico that lies in the
shadow of the 13,000-foot high volcano Colima.
The full flourishing of the Colima art style
produced masterpieces of artistic sensitivity such
as this charming dog-effigy vessel that are
among the high points in pre-Columbian art.
Canines, like this finely modeled example, were
portrayed with perceptive realism, created to
accompany the dead on their long road to the
afterlife, acting as both guide and guard. This
special breed of dog is known as the Mexican
hairless. Its wrinkled gray skin was the color of
stone, which has given it the ancient name of
Techichi (Tetl,"stone"; Chichi, "Dog"). One can
almost hear this canine fellow, with his grinning
visage, perky ears and wagging tail, playfully
whimpering for a treat. He sits at rapt attention,
his focus on his master...as it should be.
- (PF.2313)
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