Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic Period, ca. 100 BCE to 250 CE. A hand-built pottery puppy vessel of adorable form, its rotund body barely supported by its 4 bowing legs. The charming canine presents with a raised, alert face flanked by perky ears, with an open mouth that doubles as the vessel's spout, and a thick tail that curves up from the rump. You can imagine the person making this figure studying their own beloved pet as it looked up imploringly at whatever bowl of food they might have had resting near their work area. Size: 17.75" L x 8.75" W x 12.8" H (45.1 cm x 22.2 cm x 32.5 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: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-private Fayetteville, Arkansas estate, USA, acquired 1960 to 2024
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#186936
Condition
Professional repair and restoration to body and legs, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Repair to ear, with small chips and very light adhesive residue along break lines. Abrasions and fading to original pigment, with small nicks and chips in scattered areas, otherwise in nice condition. Great size and canine presentation!