Lot 48
  • 48

Colima Dog Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description

  • clay
  • Height: 11 in ( 28 cm)
lifting his rear leg to scratch his ear in an animated demeanor, the openwork mouth showing teeth, ears forward and burnished overall.

Provenance

European private collection
Sotheby's, New York, November 20, 1989, lot 174, consigned by the above

Condition

Very good condition overall; legs appear intact as well as ears.
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.

Catalogue Note

The lively ceramic animal sculptures from the Colima region are best represented by dogs. The typical reddish brown burnished surface aptly conveys the hairless Mexican dog “xoloitzcuintle” (xolo for short). The canine is believed to be a guardian to accompany and protect the dead to the afterlife, as evidenced by dogs placed in burials in late Preclassic regions. Dogs were valued as companions in daily life as well, shown here in the playful rendering of a dog's typical scratching posture.