Lot 210, Auction 3/19/2026: Quimbaya Pottery Seated Nude Male Figure

$780.00

In stock

Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Quimbaya culture, ca. 700 to 1600 CE. A compelling example of Quimbaya figural pottery, this seated nude male figure presents a direct and highly individualized form marked by a prominent nose and clearly delineated anatomy. The figure sits with legs extended forward, feet flat and toes clearly defined, while the right arm is raised in an open gesture and the left arm bends inward toward the torso. Hand-modeled in terracotta, the figure displays a broad head with small perforations along the upper brow line, possibly intended for the attachment of adornments or to indicate coiffure. The facial features are simplified yet expressive, dominated by a projecting triangular nose and a small, closed mouth. The torso is compact and cylindrical, and the phallus is explicitly delineated, emphasizing masculine identity. Raised bands encircle the lower legs to indicate anklets, suggesting bodily ornamentation and status. Size: 7.8″ W x 7.9″ H (19.8 cm x 20.1 cm)

Faint traces of red pigment remain visible across the surface, especially on the head and torso, indicating that the sculpture was originally painted. The surface exhibits expected wear and mineral accretions consistent with age and burial. Quimbaya ceramic figures frequently depict seated individuals with accentuated physical attributes and formalized gestures, reflecting social roles, ancestral veneration, or ritual significance. A well-preserved and visually assertive example of Quimbaya ceramic sculpture, this seated male effigy demonstrates the cultural emphasis on human representation and symbolic form in Pre-Columbian Colombia.

Condition: Missing two fingers on right hand. Professionally repaired with restoration in areas. Weathering to surface as shown. Rich earthen deposits throughout.

Provenance: private St. Petersburg, Florida, USA collection imported into US before 1990

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.