148 - - Seated female figure wearing a ceremonial headdress

- Seated female figure wearing a ceremonial headdress Terracotta, with orange and brown slip; slightly broken and repaired, with a small chip; shows signs of age. Remojadas, central Veracruz, Mexico. Probably Pre-Classic period, circa 100 B.C. – 150 A.D., based on stylistic similarities. 31 x 18 x 9 cm Provenance: acquired by Mr. Martinez from the former Arts des Amériques gallery, Paris, between the late 1970s and early 1980s. Seated with her legs crossed and her hands resting on her knees, this female figure exudes an attentive and contemplative presence. The strength of her arms frames the torso and underscores the stability of the composition. The elongated eyes, prominent nose, and slightly parted lips give the face a watchful, almost protective expression. The voluminous hairstyle, earrings, and necklace form an elaborate ensemble, suggesting the presence of a figure of high standing. Documentary reference: Blanca Lilia Martínez de León Mármol, “Las figurillas cerámicas del centro de Veracruz: una aproximación a la diversidad cultural prehispánica en el Clásico a través de la representación corporal,” Estudios de Antropología Biológica, XV, 2011, pp. 29–47. Comparative references: – Karl Taube, *The Albers Collection of Pre-Columbian Art*, New York, Hudson Hills Press, 1988, p. 154, no. V-13, “Seated female figure,” inv. 257003, H. 30.5 cm. Remojadas, 100 BCE – 150 CE. Similarities in posture, arm construction, and facial treatment; the headdress and surface finish differ. – Cleveland Museum of Art, Seated Figurine, inv. 1995.95, Remojadas, ca. 150–1 BCE, H. 12.3 cm. A complementary comparison of the pose, arms, and adornments, with differences in proportions and surface treatment.