Rare Pre-Columbian Colima pottery dog - TL tested

This rare Pre-Columbian Colima pottery dog, dating to approximately 300 BCE–300 CE, is a captivating example of the distinctive ceramic tradition of the Colima culture from West Mexico. Crafted from finely polished terracotta, the figure depicts a round-bodied, resting dog with a serene expression and closed eyes, exuding both simplicity and elegance. The artist has captured the essence of the animal’s form with smooth contours, emphasizing the dog’s corpulent body, short legs, and alert ears. The sculpture’s reddish-brown surface, achieved through the application of a slip, is typical of Colima ceramics and reflects the highly polished finishes prized by this culture. Subtle textural details, such as incised lines around the eyes, nose, and tail, add life and character to the figure. The dog’s form doubles as a hollow vessel, with a spout integrated into the tail, suggesting that it may have served a ceremonial or functional role, perhaps as a container for offerings or liquids used i