Teotihuacan Pottery Head of a Priest

Central Highlands of Mexico, Classic Period, ca. 250–650 CE,

Modeled in the round from a compact, grey-buff earthenware, this expressive sculptural fragment exemplifies the serene, introspective portraiture characteristic of Teotihuacan ceramic traditions. The head displays a pronounced, artificially modified cranial vault with an elongated, smoothly domed profile, possibly a stylistic and cultural hallmark reflecting the high-status cranial modification practiced in the ancient metropolis. The visage is rendered with classic Mesoamerican naturalism: elongated, horizontal slit eyes recessed into subtle orbits, a broad triangular nose with defined nostrils, and softly fleshy, parted lips resting in a calm, contemplative repose. Fully modeled in three dimensions with a smooth, bald occiput and a solid structure. The neck terminates in an ancient irregular break where it was separated from a hollow or articulated figurine body. The surface retains an appealing, dry earthen patina with localized dark mineral deposits and subtle burial encrustations across the contours.

Size 2-3/8 inches Height + custom mounted on a vintage stepped pyramidal black wooden plinth bearing an old collection inventory label numbered "35".
Ex: Private collection, Mercer Island, Washington, by descent from Ruth Goldwyn Capps and Henry McClure “Mac” Capps, art director and production designer for television and film, acquired mid‑20th century.