- 150
Colima Effigy Vessel of a Shark Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
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Description
- clay/ terracotta
- Length: 15 in (38.2 cm)
the composite shark figure supported on four legs, swallowing a human figure with the limbs projecting from the toothy mouth, with fins and tail, and spout on one side.
Provenance
Acquired in 1966
Exhibited
Chicago, Art Institute of Chicago, Ancient West Mexico, Art and Archaeology of the Unknown Past, September 5-November 2, 1998, continuing to Los Angeles County Museum of Art, December 20, 1998-March 29, 1999
Literature
Richard Townsend, ed., Ancient West Mexico, Art and Archaeology of the Unknown Past, 1998, pg. 188, Fig. 29, cat. no. 53
Condition
Overall very good, basically intact except the PR foreleg has a clean break and repair.
All the fins and other projecting areas, including the human legs, look fine.
Wonderful imagery.
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.
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 shark was a powerful alter ego for shaman in the mythology of ancient Mexico. Reborn individuals consumed by sharks became conduits with animal spirits, often as the clan leader. For a figure wearing a shark helmet, see Townsend ed. (1998:188, Fig. 30). For another shark consuming a figure, see Gallagher (1983:Fig. 77).