Although the dog ranked below other animals,
such as the serpent and jaguar, in religious
importance the canine was nevertheless a
common figure found inside tombs from Ancient
Mexico. The dog's connection to the death cult
was important and widespread. Nearly all dog
portraitures found in Western Mexico, have in
common an alert and somewhat lifelike
appearance. This was meant to signify one of
the tasks of the dog, which was to guide the
deceased along the paths of the underworld.
This lovely little animal, however, was intended
for other purposes. In many regions of Mexico
these dogs were fattened and later castrated to
make them even fatter. When the time was right,
these dogs were considered a prize item on the
menu. Perhaps this dog had been made to
symbolize the food needed for the journey into
the afterworld. Regardless of its intended
purpose, this charming piece radiates a
whimsical nature that can still be appreciated
today.
- (PF.2717)
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