Ecuador, Manabí Province, Bahía Culture, ca. 500 BC–500 AD
Height: 9 3/8 in. (23.8 cm)

A finely modeled Pre-Columbian ceramic standing figure from the Bahía culture of coastal Ecuador. The figure displays the characteristic elongated head, heavy-lidded eyes, prominent nose, and applied ear ornaments associated with Bahía artistry. The lower body is decorated with carefully incised geometric motifs representing a wrapped garment or textile, while the surface retains attractive traces of its original red, cream, and black pigments.

The hollow construction features ancient vent holes from the firing process, and the figure has developed an appealing earthen patina with areas of mineral encrustation and age-related surface wear consistent with long burial. It remains in excellent overall condition with no visible evidence of modern restoration.

Illustrated examples of this form appear in Frederick J. Dockstader’s Indian Art in South America (Plate 46), where similar Bahía standing figures are discussed.

Provenance: Ex. Riley Auctions, Indiana; Ex. House of the Six Directions, Scottsdale, Arizona, retaining the original dealer tag on the reverse.

A handsome and well-provenanced example of Bahía ceramic sculpture, representing one of the most accomplished artistic traditions of ancient coastal Ecuador.