Bought in Mexico City in 1963 by my parents. Good shape except for the top of head. Statue seems stable and is in a plexiglass case
7 inches tall by 3.5 inches wide by 2.5 inches deep
Hello, this item is a Pre-Columbian-style terracotta figurine measuring approximately 7 inches tall, 3.5 inches wide, and 2.5 inches deep. Based on its stylistic features—such as the proportion of the head and body, ear ornaments, headdress, and seated posture—it resembles artifacts from the West Mexican shaft tomb tradition, particularly those attributed to the Nayarit or Jalisco cultures (circa 200 BCE – 300 CE). These cultures are known for creating expressive and rounded human figures with pronounced facial features and body ornamentation.
The reddish-brown surface, signs of age, and wear—especially the damaged top of the head—are consistent with burial figurines excavated in the mid-20th century, many of which entered the art market during that time. However, given that it was acquired in Mexico City in 1963, this object could either be an authentic Pre-Columbian artifact or a workshop reproduction made for the antiquities trade, which was widespread by then. If confirmed authentic (ideally through thermoluminescence testing), the market value would range from $1,500 to $2,500 USD.