Pre-Columbian, Colima culture, West Mexico, ca. 100 to 250 CE. One of the most desirable representation of all styles of Colima dogs! Playful bi-chrome pottery puppy shown with a corn cob on his front paws, very happy smile upon his pleasant-looking face and tail acting as the spout. Pose allows vessel to be displayed in a begging pose or on all fours. The alert head is proudly raised with incised features like almond-shaped eyes as well as petite nostrils and a wide mouth with toothy smile. Size: 16.25" L x 8" H (41.3 cm x 20.3 cm)
Scholars know of at least two types of Colima dogs, one to be fattened up and ritually sacrificed or eaten and one to serve as a watchdog and healer of the ill. This plump hairless canine known as a Chichi or Escuintla is thought to be related to the Chihuahua or Mexican Hairless also known as the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xolo dog was named for the deity Xolotl, the God of the Underworld, and believed to guide the deceased as they journeyed to the afterlife. Colima vessels such as this one were buried in shaft tombs to protect the deceased and provide sustenance for eternity.
Provenance: ex private Southwest, USA collection; ex Meza Family collection, acquired in the 1960s
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#161876
Condition
Tip of left ear reattached, small blemish on right ear tip, surface deposits and root marks. A large fine example.