Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima culture, ca. 200 BCE to 200 CE. With a deep red finish - quite endearing for its unusually long body, open smiling muzzle, alert and perky ears, and curled tail! Size: 5-1/2"L x 10-1/2"W x 4-3/4"H.

Scholars know of at least two types of Colima dogs, one to be fattened up and ritually sacrificed or eaten and one to serve as a watchdog and healer of the ill. This plump hairless canine known as a Techichi or Escuincle is thought to be related to the Chihuahua or Mexican Hairless also known as the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xolo dog was named for the deity Xolotl, the God of the Underworld, and believed to guide the deceased as they journeyed to the afterlife. Colima vessels such as this one were buried in shaft tombs to protect the deceased and provide sustenance for eternity.



Provenance: Ex-private Houston, TX collection acquired at auction or local gallery between 1982 and 1994.

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#108059

Repair to head and stable crack from rim to body on front side as shown. Normal aged surface wear and nice manganese deposits.