Chinesco Seated Warrior Figure

Nayarit, West Mexico, ca. 300 B.C.–A.D. 400
Height: 4 in. (10.1 cm)

A finely hand-modeled terracotta figure representing a warrior or ritual participant in an animated, forward-leaning pose, typical of the Chinesco tradition of Nayarit. The figure’s dynamic posture, bent knees, and outstretched limbs convey motion and vitality—hallmarks of Western Mexico’s sculptural realism. The face, with its narrow eyes, strong nose, and expressive mouth, is accentuated by traces of red pigment still visible on the cheeks, headdress, and arms.

The subject wears an elaborate tiered headdress and broad ear ornaments, signifying rank and possibly martial or ceremonial identity. The slightly curved body and raised arm suggest he once held an object—perhaps a shield or weapon—reinforcing his role as a warrior guardian. Chinesco artisans favored smooth, rounded forms, giving their figures an almost sculptural softness that stands in contrast to the geometric abstraction of neighboring traditions such as the Ameca or Ixtlán del Río styles.

Minor loss to the right edge of the headdress, otherwise intact and well-preserved with fine surface deposits and remaining painted details. A compact but exceptionally expressive example of early Nayarit artistry, displaying the region’s distinctive blend of humor, humanity, and ceremonial symbolism.

Provenance:
Ex. Abell Auction, Los Angeles, California
Ex. Important Private Southern California Estate

Comparable examples: See Townsend, Richard F., “Ancient West Mexico: Art and Archaeology of the Unknown Past,” The Art Institute of Chicago, 1998, pp. 118–123; Sotheby’s, New York, Pre-Columbian Art, May 15, 2019, lot 62.