Colima State, Mexico
Toltec

Ceramic
ca. 900-1200 CE
Length: 10.5 in; Height: 6 in
Aerophones – Wind Instruments Proper – Lip Vibrated

A Jaguar effigy trumpet from the Toltec culture, possibly from the El Chanal (archaeological site), in Colima State, Mexico.  This unique ceramic effigy trumpet is made of buff earthenware with a deep red slip and a highly burnished surface.  Overall, there are ample mineral and soil deposits and just one minor repair.  The trumpet has a tubular mouthpiece at the back to allow for the blowing and buzzing of lips to create sound through the spiraling conch shape shell that terminates into the Jaguar’s head as it emerges from the shell. 

The representation of the jaguar as a fearsome and powerful predator is revealed as the jaguar stands supported by his two front legs and is depicted with bulging eyes, pointed ears and an open mouth showing several teeth.

Colima is a state name and is also the name of the capital city.  The people in this region, who settled in prehistoric times, came by successive waves of people arriving from the north: the Otomies may have come through the area around 250-750 CE, followed by the Toltecs who flourished between 900 and 1154 CE, and the Chichimecs who came to the area during the twelfth century.  This effigy trumpet dates back to the Toltecs.