Colima Pre-Columbian Seated Figure

A kneeling figure with hands clasped low and a double knot rising from its head.

This pre-columbian seated figure is Colima, from West Mexico, Mexico. It is terra cotta. Terra cotta is clay fired at relatively low temperatures, and Colima pieces are typically recognized by their smooth red or reddish-brown slip and rounded, sculptural forms. A small gray-brown figure with a tall woven or twisted headdress on top, round eyes, and a nub of a nose. Both arms cross over the belly, and the knees tuck underneath. The surface is matte and slightly chalky. It is 2.25 inches wide, 1 deep and 3.5 high.

Modest in posture, and more than a little tall in the hair.