LARGE JALISCO SEATED MALE FIGURE, Ameca style, Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D 250

the muscular figure with taut and modeled limbs, the flexed hands on the knees, fingernails prominently shown, the legs and upper arms in constricting bands, pectorals delineated and his alert and forceful gaze with parted lips showing teeth, the finely striated hair bound with a patterned headband with central medallion.

Louisiana Gallery, acquired in the 1960's
Acquired from the above in 1981

Overall excellent , basically intact but shows crack of stress or old repair around the neck , towards the back right shoulder and slightly down neck.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This figure shows the strength, tension and readiness associated with ballplayers or chieftains, as seen in comparable Ameca-Etzatlán figures (Townsend ed. 1998:20, fig. 8, and  pg. 157, fig. 8). The ballgame was a well established ceremonial activity serving a  vital function for rulers to distinguish themselves and affirm their social status and authority.