Anonymous

Mexico, Colima, Proto-Classic Period

Seated Shaman with Shell Necklace and Horn on Head

100 B.C.–250 A.D.

Burnished red ceramic

Gift of Wayne and Frances Knight Parrish

1992.48

This ancient American ceramic is unglazed, yet has a shiny surface. Its luster is achieved through burnishing, a painstaking technique that uses a hard tool, like a smooth stone, to rub the entire surface of the unfired clay. Burnishing was also used in creating ancient Western ceramics.

More works of art in the category: Art of the Americas

32 works of art See all
  • Standing Figure

  • Seated Figure

  • Spoon in the Shape of a Dragon Head

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