Two Guerrero Xochipala & Tlatilco Pottery Figures (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 27)

$289.13

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Guerrero, Xochipala, ca. 13th to 10th century BCE; Central Mexico, Tlatilco, ca. 1200 to 400 BCE. A compelling pairing of two early Mesoamerican figural traditions, each capturing the human form through distinct regional styles and sculptural priorities. The larger figure, attributed to the Xochipala tradition of Guerrero, is modeled in a seated posture with hands resting at the abdomen, its broad face framed by incised hair and prominent earspools. The form reflects the naturalistic tendencies associated with Xochipala ceramics, among the earliest known sculptural expressions in Mesoamerica, where attention to proportion and bodily presence takes precedence over abstraction. The smaller figure, attributed to Tlatilco culture of the Basin of Mexico, presents a more stylized interpretation, with outstretched arms, a compact torso, and simplified facial features. Size of larger (Guerrero Xochipala): 1.9″ W x 6″ H (4.8 cm x 15.2 cm)

Tlatilco figures are among the formative ceramic traditions of central Mexico and are often associated with themes of fertility, identity, and early social expression. Together, the two figures illustrate the breadth of early Pre-Columbian figural traditions, balancing observation and abstraction within a shared exploration of the human form.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005

Condition: Larger has been repaired with break lines and adhesive visible. Tlatilco has restoration to proper left arm and chipping to limbs. Surface wear throughout, commensurate with age.