A Colima seated figure with Shell, Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250

the slender figure deeply inhaling in a trance and balancing the large conch shell trumpet on his knee, rounded forward with a shell necklace encircling this shoulders, wearing disk earrings and with a serrated crest on his cap.

Acquired prior to 1972

Overall very good, no repairs.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Musicians form an important  category within the diverse repertoire of Colima sculpture, which includes clan ancestors, warriors and guardians, animals, acrobats, burden carriers, and dwarves. Shamanistic activities involved playing music with gourd rattles, tortoise shell carapaces and shell trumpets.  On this sculpture, the large air hole for firing was incorporated into the headdress rather than forming a spout or hidden from view. For similar figures, see Holsbeke and Arnaut (1998: pls. 9 and 10), and Sotheby's, New York, May 12, 2005, lot 275.