A large Tlatilco figure in exceptional condition, from Pre-Classic Mexico ca. 1200 B.C. - 500 B.C. 8-1/4"H x 4 1/2"W (unmounted); 10-1/2"H (mounted). This substantial hollow figure depicts a seated Tlatilco female with remnants of red and black painted, symbolic patterns on her head, face and torso.

Interestingly, the navel features a hole to the hollow center. The hole was plugged up from centuries of burial, and was only recently unstopped to remove a large quantity of very fine earth, likely of the kind used in the manufacture of fine ancient earthenware figures such as this one. Some amount of ancient earth remains inside the hollow cavity of the figure. The ancient contents that were removed have been sealed in a container, and will be included with the piece for archaeological posterity. Comes with custom display mount, as shown.

PROVENANCE: Ex-Pablo Bush Romero Collection, collected in the 1940s.

Intact with no indications of repair or restoration of any kind. One minor chip beneath figure's right eye does not detract. The item has not been excessively cleaned so as to not risk the loss of the remaining pigmentation and designs. There is an old collection number on the figure's back, and it has a general fine covering of earth and mineral deposits overall that attest to the age and authenticity of the item.