Miniature figurine c. 1500

This miniature figurine was created by an artist of the Pueblo people. As a work of Indigenous art, it embodies both personal expression and a reflection of cultural identity deeply rooted in community and ancestral traditions. The figure's posture, with hands clasped, speaks to contemplation or prayer, reflecting the Pueblo's profound connection to spirituality and their environment. These figurines often serve ceremonial purposes or represent ancestral spirits. The cultural and historical context of the Pueblo people, who have faced centuries of colonialism, significantly influences the work. The act of creating this figurine is an assertion of cultural survival. It offers an intimate glimpse into a world where art, spirituality, and daily life are intertwined, while highlighting themes of resistance, resilience, and the endurance of Indigenous identity.