Colima Sculpture of a Seated Musician - PF.2443,Origin: Western Mexico,Circa: 100 BC to 250 AD,Dimensions: 10.5" (26.7cm) high x 8.25" (21.0cm) wide,Collection: Pre-Columbian,Style: Colima,Medium: Terracotta. The West Mexico state of Colima supported a thriving ancient culture, which between about 300 B.C. and 600 A.D., produced a remarkable variety of ceramic art, ranging from the unique rendering of human figures to the myriad plant and animal life found in the region. Created as burial objects to accompany the deceased on their journey to the afterlife, these terracotta sculptures, as revealed in this charming seated musician, are full of a lively spirit and energy. Adorned with a headdress and large decorative collar, the musician sits with his stocky legs bent. While one hand rests atop his right knee, the other holds a large knobbed conch shell, which he uses either as a trumpet or plays as a rasp. If we listen closely we can almost hear the melodic sounds emanating from this talented musician's ancient instrument. With eyes half shut, as if in a musical trance, this sensitive Colima musician seems also to hear the ancient notes--sounds of a rhythmical repertoire as old as time itself.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico