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Of Land, Sea, and Sky
Animals in the Art of the Ancient Americas

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Figural vessel in the form of a Dog
Colima, Comala style, Mexico
Redware pottery
100 BC - 250 AD
L: 14.5 in. (36.83 cm), H: 9.25 in. (23.495 cm)

This classic representation of a dog with alert expression, standing with ears pricked, on slightly bowed legs with upraised head, conveys the animated spirit of the species which was so evidently popular among the Colima culture during the Comala period. The projecting tail forms the spout for this figural vessel; it was probably filled with food or liquid prior to being interred as a funerary offering. It has survived in excellent condition and constitutes one of the finest examples of this subject.

Scientific classification: "Canis familiaris".


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