Standing female figure c. 250 - 300

This Standing Female Figure was made in Chupícuaro, a culture located in present-day Guanajuato, Mexico. The artist used earthenware, also known as terracotta, a low-fired ceramic clay. The figure's appearance is directly related to its material and the way it was made. The clay was likely shaped by hand, perhaps using simple molds for certain features. The surface is decorated with pigment - you can see the striped details on her lower body, and the remnants of color on her headdress and earrings. These painted lines emphasize the figure's form, and give her a sense of identity. This figure belongs to a long history of ceramics, requiring specific knowledge and skill. The fact that the figure is hand-built shows that the artist had a deep understanding of the material and its capabilities. By understanding these processes, we can appreciate the artistry and cultural significance of this small but powerful sculpture, connecting it to broader social issues of labor and cultural expression.