This diminutive sculpture of a mother dog
carrying her pup on her back comes from the
state of Jalisco in western Mexico. This region of
western Mexico, specifically the states of Colima
and Jalisco, is famous for its charming canine
sculptures such as this one. Thought to
represent a type of hairless dog found in the
area, these sculptures were entombed with the
deceased along with other pottery ware. These
dogs were bred in antiquity for human
consumption. Thus, the presence of this
creature in a burial tomb suggests that they were
sustenance for the afterlife. Although we do not
know the specifics of this ancient culture’s
religious beliefs, this theory seems credible and
consistent. This little sculpture represents and
unusual scene. A small pup rides along the back
of the presumed mother. Both dogs wear similar
collars suggesting that they might be
domesticated pets and not just a potential feast.
The collars reveal that these dogs were the
possession of someone else. Thus it is possible
that this sculpture was entombed alongside the
deceased not just for nourishment but also for
companionship. Although such sculpture was
buried along with the dead to provide a feast in
the afterlife, instead they have provided a feast
for modern collectors. The charm and beauty of
this sculpture will surely sustain our souls for
this lifetime and perhaps even into our next.
- (PF.5955)
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