In the west Mexico state of Nayarit, ancient artisans produced a spectacular variety of art in clay, specializing in vibrant and spirited figures. Here, a seated female is rendered in the Nayarit 'Chinesco' style, so named because of the figure's characteristic facial features--small slanted, almond-shaped eyes that combine with high cheekbones to convey a vaguely oriental feeling. Her triangle-shaped head, pointed nose adorned with a clip and expressive mouth add to this individual's distinctive appearance. Seated on large buttocks, her painted torso hunched over, she positions her long thin arms on stocky bent legs. Pensively, her chin rests on hands that grace the top of her right knee. We can only wonder what deep and meditative thoughts were going through the mind of the Ancient Nayarit artist who created this masterpiece of sensitive sculpting. While the artist's thoughts may be elusive, forever lost in hte passage of time, the fruits of his laber continue to express themselves today through this poetic work of art--a sculpture that truly embodies an expression of poignant, Universal emotions.