This unique figure of a contorted canine lies on
its side, with its legs stretched to wrap them
around the neck. The burnished surf ace of the
body is smooth and physical features such as the
tail, bodily orifice, and the tongue that sticks out
from the mouth are given attention. Different
from the common seated or standing dog
effigies, this unusual canine opens up many
interesting possibilities of its significance. The
smooth body surface indicates that the canine is
hairless--most of the hairless dogs were used
as food in late pre-classic Jalisco. These canines
were a prized item on the menu. The odd
position of the canine suggests that it was
perhaps about to be skinned before
consumption. Such unusual position of the
canine might also suggest the idea of copulation.
The posture places the animal in a vulnerable
position, with its sensitive body parts exposed.
Moreover, because the concept of rebirth was
important in Meso-America, perhaps the animal
not only represents copulation but also rebirth.
Such concept related to regeneration could be
derived from the fact that canines were
considered as the guide to the underworld--the
life after death. Carrying such mystical
connotation, this canine figure was found from a
shaft tomb, which indicates its function as a
ritual object. Such idea of the afterlife is hinted
by the hanging tongue, which signifies death.
This peculiar piece stirs the viewer's interest,
imagination and curiosity. It stimulates one's
mind, to wonder about the ancient life in late
pre-classic Jalisco. HT. 9cm(3 1/2IN): L. 21cm(8
1/4IN)
- (PF.2931)
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