The preclassic cultures of West Mexico occupied the modern states of Jalisco, Nayarit, and Colima, where artisans produced a variety of ceramic figures in distinctive regional styles. This ceramic figural fragment is from Middle Preclassic (Late Formative) Mexico and represents the Michoacan style. Despite missing the head and lower body, the figure's armbands and necklace or pectoral collar ornament signify elite status.

Elaine Higgins Smith, Digital Collections Content Coordinator, 2016.

Adapted from

Gallery text [West Mexico], A. H. Meadows Galleries.