The ancient site of Tlantilco in the valley of Mexico came to light in 1936, during excavations carried out by brick workers digging for clay. While removing the clay in order to make bricks, these workmen discovered a large number of burials, in which were placed delicately modeled figurines, such as this remarkable example. Later excavations in the area, performed by archaeologists, revealed that these burials formed a portion of a very large village, Tlatilco, located west of the Great Lake on a small stream, and settled by about 1200 B.C. The figurines that appear in these ancient burials reveal that they are the most aesthetically satisfying in Ancient Mexico.
This voluptuous Mesoamerican Venus, holds her arms out from her sides and takes a tentative step forward, as if walking on a tightrope. Perhaps she recognizes that this is the perfect metaphor for passion, requiring skill, daring and balance. Though she is aware of the dangers, she seems willing to take the risk.