Tlatilco
Female figure
Tlatilco, 900-500 BCE
Physical Qualities
Earthenware, traces of red, black, and white pigment, 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Bernice Barth, Los Angeles
Object Number
1987.169
Thousands of clay figurines created by Tlatilco artists of Central Mexico depict the distinct clothing, hair styles, and adornments of women. Ball players are indicated by their wrist and ankle guards, protective helmet, and cushioning at the waist and hips. Young, athletic women are depicted in ball game attire as early as 1500 BC but are not included in ball game imagery of the Maya or Aztec.
