Artemis Gallery
Lot 129
Pre-Columbian, Western Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic period, ca. 100 BCE to 250 CE. We have seen quite a few Colima puppies in our day, but this example is particularly exemplary! First off, its scale is impressive - quite sizeable and corpulent with a very full belly! Also, if you look closely, in addition to the finely burnished redware finish there are two large dark red spots - one on each side of his belly - how adorable! Then there is the canine's lively pose - standing on all fours with upraised ears and a perky tail - as well as its expressive visage with wide-open incised eyes, flaring openwork nostrils on its pointy snout, and an open toothy muzzle. While to our eyes his barking may signify that he is ready to play, the ancient Colima sculptor more likely intended to depict a very loyal puppy - serving as a watchdog and barking to protect the deceased in the afterlife. A very special canine, quite alert with perky ears and wagging tail! Size: 15.25" L x 8.75" W x 10.625" H (38.7 cm x 22.2 cm x 27 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-John Rich collection, California, USA. John Rich was a notable Hollywood producer/director. Condition: Tail reattached and body is skillfully repaired from about 6 to 8 pieces with professional restoration over the break lines - so well done that it is difficult to see the break lines and the form is quite well-preserved. In addition to its beautifully burnished redware finish, the puppy is covered with liberal manganese deposits. There is an old auction label on underside of belly. All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #145820
