Seated Female Figure
Artist
Unknown
Datecirca 500–1000
MediumCeramic with incised decoration
DimensionsH. 10 1/2 in. (26.7 cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Dr. Clifton F. Mountain and Mrs. Marilyn T. Mountain
Object number96.4.106
On View
On viewThe role of women as child-bearers and child-raisers is a common theme in the pre-Columbian art of Costa Rica. In this figure, the fecundity of the female body is indicated by the seated position with hands-on-hips and spread legs.
The figure is embellished with extensive body painting (or tattooing). The specific meanings these motifs must have held for ancient Costa Ricans have, unfortunately, been lost. The extensive tattooing of the figure is rendered by the lightly incised lines covering her body. Also, note the use of the incised line to indicate her eyes and teeth.
Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "Objects of Desire: The Museum Collects, 1994-2004," July 18, 2004-February 27, 2005.
Raleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "The People's Collection Reimagined," July 15, 2025-present. Object Rights Statement
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