This standing, pregnant female figure is an extraordinary example of the Pre-Columbian ceramic artistry created in the west Mexico state of Jalisco. From this region comes some of the most spirited and unique clay sculptures, which today have assumed an important and valuable place in the history of world art. Created to accompany the deceased on his or her long journey to the afterlife, the spirit of sculptures such as this appear to have performed a variety of duties, although their specific functions still remain unclear. Perhaps this delightful, pregnant figure represented the wish by the deceased for a long and fertile afterlife; since the figures distended belly and enlarged breasts are clearly her most prominent features. With a wide legged stance and hands placed on her stomach, the figure appears in a notably animated and pregnant posture as well. We can almost see her skirt moving against her belly as she waddles toward us, the extra weight of the baby forcing her body to sway gently from side to side. When combined with her large earrings, armbands and shoulders adorned with the clustered marks of scarification, she presents an altogether captivating, fruitful and communicative image. A delight to behold and a joy to ponder, she conveys to us at once all that is creative and worthwhile in this life.