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.
Here we experience the potter's mastery of this versatile medium in the form of a hollow-core, young standing female, with characteristic stocky outstretched legs and abbreviated arms. Her dramatically elongated head is crowned with two horns, artistically serving as vessel spouts. With slanted, almond-shaped eyes, the figure stares outward, casting her ancient spell upon us. A necklace adorns her body, accentuating her spirited beauty and sparking our curiosity about the fascinating culture that produced this extraordinary work of ceramic art.