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Ceramic Pre-Columbian Colima Hunchback Figure Vessel

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A pre-Columbian figural vessel from West Mexico Colima culture (circa 300BC-400AD). Made of molded clay, the stoneware vessel depicts a seated hunchback woman with truncated style arms and opening sprout on top of the head. The highly stylized figure is prominent in its geometrical composition leaning forward with the protruding disformed back. The face is expressively molded with coffee-bean shaped eyes. It appears to be a female figure with the genital being marked so. The surface is beautifully burnished with a red slip showing natural patina and subtle changes in colors, likely due to the long period of being a burial object in a shaft tomb.
Hunchback and dwarf individuals with bodily disfiguration were often seen in the pottery figures of the Colima culture. It is believed by some scholars that they may actually have a high social status as being important in religious life such as a magician or shaman. The sculptural rendition of the figure evokes a strong sense of power and timeless beauty.
Provenance is available to the buyer.

More Information

Origin:	Mexico
Period:	Pre 18th Century
Materials:	ceramic
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Fine condition with aforementioned burnished surface, minute nicks and scrapes scattered as expected and can be seen on the back and the rim upon very close range.
Creation Date:	300BC-400AD
Styles / Movements:	Pre-Columbian, Traditional
Patterns:	Geometric, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	574375

Dimensions

W.	7 in;	H.	8.8 in;	D.	7 in;
W.	17.78 cm;	H.	22.35 cm;	D.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.