Nayarit Chinesco-Style Seated Figure

This seated ceramic figure is attributed to the ancient Nayarit region of Mexico and was likely used as a ritual or burial offering. The ceramic works of this style, known as Chinesco figures, are often distinguished by puffy, slit-like eyes blended into the face and broad rectangular or triangular heads.

These figures are often shown seated or reclining, with shortened limbs and bulbous, tapered legs as depicted here. This particular example shows a figure seated with legs bent, arms crossed and resting on their knees, and head bowed downwards in contemplation. The ceramic figure is finished with a layer of red clay slip and painted with rich red and black pigments that illustrate clothing and facial features.