Teotihuacan, Mexico
Teotihuacan civilization

Ceramic, pyrite, pigment
ca. 500-700 CE
Height: 7.25 in
Other – Ritual Symbolism

This sculpture, in the shape of a seated cross-legged male, comes from Teotihuacan, the great prehistoric metropolis in the northeastern Valley of Mexico.  The individual appears to be either a warrior or dressed in the office of war.  His accoutrements include a large collar (composed of circular applique), a double tripartite plumed headdress, large earspools, wrist and ankle bracelets, and a loincloth.   The fingers and toes are incised and there are traces of slight red and white pigments overall.  His hands are held upward as he looks upward in a gesture of prayer. 

This figure connects to the Great Mexican city of Teotihuacan and speaks to the ancient Mesoamericans’ beliefs and artistry.

Resource: In Studies in Ancient Mesoamerican Art and Architecture: Selected Works by Karl Andreas Taube, pp. 174–203. Precolumbia Mesoweb Press, San Francisco. Electronic version available: www.mesoweb.com/publications/Works