Chinesco Style (Type B) Nayarit Terracotta Sculpture of a Seated Woman - PF.2782
Origin: Nayarit, Mexico
Circa: 300 BC to 300 AD
Dimensions: 8" (20.3cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Style: Chinesco (Type B)
Medium: Terracotta

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This lovely Nayarit woman, serene and poised, looks as if she is in a state of meditation. Rendered in the "Chinesco" style, she has the attributes often associated with oriental figures--a heart-shaped face, pointed nose, and quietly slanted eyes. Her burnished red body has been decorated with painted garments, and her nose adorned with a ring. With her hands fused on her slightly protruding belly, and her pointed breasts emphasized; is it possible that the artist was depicting a young pregnant woman? Placed long ago in an ancient tomb, she may have offered the hope of rebirth in the afterlife. Now centuries later, her serene half-smile is still intoxicating. - (PF.2782)