Figure c. 100 - 300

This figure was made in Colima, a region in present-day Mexico, out of humble terracotta. This material has a directness to it. We immediately sense the artist pinching and forming the clay, building up the form with simple gestures. Look closely, and you can see the slight roughness of the surface, where the artist’s touch is still visible. The figure’s features are simplified, yet the presence of clothing indicates an interest in social identity. It’s fascinating to consider how readily available materials like clay were used in conjunction with specific techniques, passed down through generations, to produce objects that had deep cultural significance. While we might admire the figure’s aesthetic qualities, it's essential to remember that its value stems from the deep investment of time, skill, and cultural knowledge that went into its creation. This challenges our common separation of art from craft, inviting us to appreciate the artistry inherent in everyday materials and processes.