An extraordinary example of ancient clay artistry, this pregnant female figure was created in the Mexican state of Nayarit, located in the western region of the country. Here, expert craftsmen developed a distinctive style of art called Chinesco, so named because of the clay figures characteristic facial features small, slanted almond shaped eyes that combine with high cheekbones to convey an exotic oriental feeling. In this striking example, we also see the characteristic heart shaped head and pointed, ornamented nose that further distinguishes this commanding art style. Positioned in a birth giving posture, with legs bent back at the knees, this pregnant female figure holds her long thin arms over her distended belly. We can almost see her hands pushing down on her stomach, as she contends with the miraculous experience of bringing new life into the world. How touching is her demeanor, how universal is her circumstance. She is truly a testament to the tender sensitivities of the ancient Nayarit artists and their outstanding ability to translate those feelings into a beautifully expressive work of art.