Large Chinesco Female Figure, Lagunillas Type C Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250

the highly stylized female distinguished by her mask-like face and mesh tunic of tightly spaced checkerboard design, the slender arms pressed close to her torso in contrast to the voluminous outspread legs and small arched feet, a loincloth suspended from the thin waistband, and wearing beaded armbands, necklace and earrings, her whitened face with striped tattoos on her cheeks, and darkened eye area with pellet pupils.

Andre Emmerich Inc., acquired in 1971
Candadian private collection, acquired from the above in 1972
Sotheby's, New York, November 23, 1992, lot 119, consigned by the above

Chicago, Richard Gray Gallery, March-April 1972

Excellent condition overall; only significant repair appears to be across the PL upper thigh, clean break and repair, minor chip to toes of PL foot as shown in photo otherwise fine, excellent detail front and back.
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.

The Lagunillas figures represent a localized tradition made over a short period of time in the southern part of Nayarit. This monumental youthful female is one of two figures known in this particular style of Lagunillas Type C. They are versions of the idealized female figure representing the fertility of certain lineages. The figures share the distinctive tunic pattern, striped cheeks, pellet eyes and overall body form; for the other figure see Sotheby's, New York, May 17, 1994, lot 169. This figure shows a creative use of cream, black and red slip to create contrasting designs and textured surfaces.