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Colima

Dancer holding turtle shell and knocker

Colima, 300

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Colima

Dancer holding turtle shell and knocker

Colima, 300

Physical Qualities Earthenware, 6 11/16 in. (17 cm.)
Credit Line Gift of The Jaegal Foundation, Baltimore, George and Julianne Alderman
Object Number 1999.184.19
Probably from one tomb, these performer figures may have been placed to conduct ritual for the protection of the deceased in the afterlife. Most of the dancers wear animal and human masks probably representing deities, and carry musical instruments such as rasps, gongs, and rattles. One holds a human bust as if it were a puppet. Some headdresses are detachable. Costumes include feather, reed, cloth, and paper ornaments, just as human performers would have worn.
George and Julianne Alderman, Baltimore

Culture

Colima

2000–2000

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