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Human face effigy vessel

Colima
Late Preclassic period
200 B.C.–A.D. 300
Object Place: Colima, México

Medium/Technique Earthenware: red-brown and black slip paint
Dimensions Overall: 10.2 x 16.3 cm (4 x 6 7/16 in.)
Credit Line Gift of Margret Craver Withers
Accession Number1993.741
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsCeramicsPotteryEarthenware

DescriptionFluted bowl with in-set rim and slightly concave base. A humanoid face is modeled in low relief on the front of the bowl, and vertical flutes embellish the rest of the bowl's surface. Two tiny nubbins on the forehead likely represent ears; the small holes punched in their surface do not pierce the clay and thus did not function as tie-holds. Sets of three parallel, thin black lines decorate the in-set rim band, and two parallel lines with side volutes are painted in the center of the face's forehead.
ProvenanceBy 1972, acquired in Mexico or Guatemala by Margret Craver Withers (b. 1907 - d. 2010), Boston; 1993, gift of Margret Craver Withers to the MFA. (Accession Date: November 17, 1993)