Jalisco Mother and Child, Ameca style, Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250

holding a small figure to her right breast, her youthful and resolute posture with high rounded shoulders and crossed legs enveloped in her skirt, leaning forward with head erect and lips parted, with classic slender nose showing inflated nostrils, rimmed eyes and modeled cheeks, wearing beaded armbands, earrings with star design and turban secured with a slender band, remains of black tattoos on the breasts.

Acquired by the mid 1980's

Generally good, but has various repairs concentrated on the back and buttocks, all appear to be with original pieces, repaired or restored top flange of the turban. The face, head , arms and 'infant are all very good. Nice coloring and patina overall
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.

Cf. Holsbeke and Arnaut (1998:fig. 80).
Maternity figures are an important genre of the sculptures depicting rites of passage and the continuous life cycle. It is notable that the 'infants' are usually portrayed as small adults, indicating they are ancestor or clan figures, rather than children.