Description:
Dog seated on haunches; face smiling with teeth, ears protruding and semi-upright. Vessel opening on top of head.

Label Text:
Installed in Art Before 700 CE, Spring 2025 Label Text:

Excavations in the shaft tombs in Colima, on the western coast of Mexico, have revealed ceramics like these ones in large numbers. Local flora and fauna—such as the dog and gourd seen here—were particularly popular forms. Copying subjects seen in life, these vessels were meant to offer sustenance and comfort to the deceased in the afterlife. Colima is well-known for depictions of overfed dogs, like the one on the left. These were likely domesticated breeds that were ancestors of present-day Xoloitzcuintli and Chihuahuas. [Displayed with Gourd vessel, MH 2001.8.12]

Tags:
ancient; archaeology; animals; funeral rites and ceremonies; dogs; vessels; pottery; containers

Subjects:
Pottery; Animals; archaeological objects; Civilization, Ancient; Containers; Dogs; Funeral rites and ceremonies

Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=MH+1975.15.23

Research on objects in the collections, including provenance, is ongoing and may be incomplete. If you have additional information or would like to learn more about a particular object, please email fc-museums-web@fivecolleges.edu.