Large Nayarit Seated Female Figure

George and Julie Alderman, Baltimore, acquired in the 1970s or early 1980s

Thence by descent to the present owner

Large Nayarit figures are a special class of the ‘Chinesco’ style referred to as Type A. The sculptures show the virtues of youthful men and women in proud postures closely associated with gender roles. Here the pregnant figure sits proudly with both hands on her rounded belly, showing a gentle smile. Her chin reveals the bulge of two small quids. She is adorned with multiple earrings, stacked necklaces, and wears a net loincloth with a slender waistband continuing around the back. She is balanced on her tiny feet that curl beneath her, visible on the reverse of the figure.

For similar figures, see Richard F. Townsend, ed., Ancient West Mexico, Art and Archaeology of the Unknown Past, Chicago, 1998, p. 123, figs. 21 and 22.