One of the most exciting and expressive Pre-
Columbian art styles belongs to a group of
people who lived
in the pacific region of Ancient Mexico close to
the 13,000-foot-high volcano 'Colima.' Here,
artisans modeled in clay a rich assortment of
animal and plant figures, a striking example of
which is revealed in this dog-effigy vessel.
Portrayed with exceptional realism, this canine
was created as a burial object, its function to
accompany the deceased on his or her long
journey to the afterlife, the dog's spirit acting as
both guide and guard. This particular breed of
ancient canine is known as the Mexican hairless,
its wrinkled gray skin the color of stone giving it
the ancient name of Techichi (Tetl meaning
'stone,' Chichi meaning 'dog'). Poised on all
fours with spout-shaped tail upright, ears
perked and mouth open, this Techichi appears to
be suspended in motion. One can almost see his
ever-alert ears twitching and hear his high-
pitched bark, as he attentively guides his master
through the journey to the afterlife, the visible
teeth further enhancing his protective nature. A
stunning example of Colima artistry, this
sculpted canine expresses most ardently an
ancient people's extreme regard for, and intimate
relationship with the natural world that
surrounded them. Today, the spirit of this canine
most certainly lives on--we need only gaze into
the face of this Techichi to experience its age-
old guardian powers.
- (PF.2442)
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