 Colima, Mexico Jar with Parrot Feet, c. 3rd century BC – 4th century molded and hand-built ceramic with burnished red slip Purchase, 1957 (2294.1) The Colima people, named for the state of Colima in west Mexico, buried their dead in
deep shaft-tombs accompanied by sculptural ceramic vessels in the form of human
figures and flora/fauna of the natural world. The surfaces were covered with red slip (a
watery clay suspension) and burnished by rubbing with a smooth stone or shell before
firing to give a shiny surface. These two Colima objects demonstrate the delightful,
elegant sense of design and the excellent skill of Colima artists. The vertical ridges of
the squash vessel have been rendered in a minimalist way, making the body a
collection of abstract ridges and curves. It is supported by three upright parrots which
balance on their tail feathers; these were probably made in a mold and applied to the
vessel. |