Colima Vessel in the Form of a Seated Man - PF.2853 Origin: Western Mexico Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD Dimensions:10.125" (25.7cm) high x 5.25" (13.3cm) wide Collection: Pre-Columbian Style: Colima Medium: Terracotta
Poised in a typical masculine position. This
stunning example of Colima artistry served dual
purposes. Aside from the aesthetic beauty
enjoyed by the people of Ancient Mexico for their
sculpted works, this piece had a practical as well
as spiritual purpose. The spout at the top of the
figure's head suggests that it was used as a
vessel to hold offerings for ceremonies or burial.
It is not an accident that this figure is shaped like
a man waiting patiently. It was commonly
believed that the deceased needed to be
accompanied into the afterworld. Therefore,
many shaft tombs yielded an abundance of
ceramic figures, animals and jewelry to make the
journey more comfortable and to make offerings
to the gods to allow entrance into the next
world. We gaze at a legacy of spiritual beliefs
and earthly longing for the next world.
- (PF.2853)