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Pre-Columbian Art :
Tlatilco Art : Tlatilco Sculpture of a Standing Woman
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Tlatilco Sculpture of a Standing Woman - PF.2587
Origin: Tlatilco, Mexico
Circa: 1000
BC
to 800
BC
Dimensions:
10" (25.4cm) high
x 5.375" (13.7cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: UAE
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Description |
The ancient site of Tlantilco in the valley of
Mexico came to light in 1936, during
excavations carried out by brick workers digging
for clay. While removing the clay in order to
make bricks, these workmen discovered a large
number of burials, in which were placed
delicately modeled figurines, such as this
remarkable example. Later excavations in the
area, performed by archaeologists, revealed that
these burials formed a portion of a very large
village, Tlatilco, located west of the Great Lake
on a small stream, and settled by about 1200
B.C. The figurines that appear in these ancient
burials reveal that they are the most aesthetically
satisfying in Ancient Mexico.
Here we
experience the potter's mastery of this versatile
medium in the form of a hollow-core, young
standing female, with characteristic stocky
outstretched legs and abbreviated arms. Her
dramatically elongated head is crowned with two
horns, artistically serving as vessel spouts. With
slanted, almond-shaped eyes, the figure stares
outward, casting her ancient spell upon us. A
necklace adorns her body, accentuating her
spirited beauty and sparking our curiosity about
the fascinating culture that produced this
extraordinary work of ceramic art.
- (PF.2587)
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