Colima Terracotta Dog Effigy - PF.2408, Origin: Colima, Mexico, Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD, Dimensions: 11" (27.9cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Colima, Medium: Terracotta. This handsome animal has very short squat legs, the front feet are turned slightly outwards while the hind legs are curved inward to help support the weight of the bulbous body. A small head reveals great detail with its perky pointed ears, open mouth exposing sharp canine teeth, alert eyes and well-formed nose. The short upturned with areas of black is distinctive of Colima style. In some Meso-America cultures dogs were seen as guides for human spirits in the underworld, and were therefore perfect companions for the deceased. Since Colima art includes many depictions of everyday life the representation of a family pet is quite natural, and in this case a particularly delightful one.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico