Seated figure; Tlatilco Culture, Mexico, A.D. 200.

Seated figure; Tlatilco Culture, Mexico, 200 A.D.
Terracotta.
Measurements: 8 x 5 x 3 cm.
Statuette in terracotta modeled by hand representing a character of synthesized anatomy and face of marked expressiveness. The figure appears in a seated position, with the arms resting on the crossed legs. The treatment of the hair, elaborated with a headdress decorated with incisions, as well as the elements of personal adornment, among them the necklace and the earrings, which reinforce its ceremonial or symbolic character, stand out especially.
The Tlatilco culture developed in the Valley of Mexico during the Middle Preclassic period, approximately between 1500 and 500 B.C. It is one of the most important pottery traditions of this period, notable for the strong Olmec influence reflected in its material production. Within its ceramic repertoire, the human figures stand out, usually presented in two main typologies: large, hollow, red-painted pieces, and small solid figures, worked with great refinement, often representing nude young women adorned with elaborate headdresses and careful attention to detail.