Pre-Columbian Tlatilco Seated Figure
Mexico, Tlatilco Culture, c. 1000–400 BCE

A finely modeled buffware pottery figure depicting a seated individual with legs crossed and both hands resting against the face in a contemplative pose. The expressive facial features are complemented by two distinctive spiral hair tufts atop the head, a characteristic element of Tlatilco ceramic sculpture.

Scattered mineral deposits and earthen encrustations remain across the surface, with traces of the original red pigment still visible. The right arm has been professionally stabilized; otherwise the figure remains intact.

Height: 3 in. (7.6 cm)

Provenance: Ex Michael Cichon, OH. Ex. Private Florida Collection, acquired 2016. Ex. Private Chicago Collection. Acquired from the Maxwell Price Collection, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 1985.