Vera Cruz Smiling Pottery Sonriente Head

This work of art is a classic example of a Remojadas “Sonriente” (Smiling) effigy head from the Vera Cruz region on the Gulf Coast of Mexico, dating to approximately 600–800 AD. These distinctive terracotta heads are renowned for their expressive almond-shaped eyes, prominent grinning mouths—with visible teeth—and elaborate headdresses and ear ornaments.
The Remojadas culture, part of the broader Classic Veracruz tradition, produced thousands of ceramic figurines, with the Sonriente or “smiling face” being the most iconic.
The figures typically feature a wide, toothy smile, often on triangular heads like yours, suggesting joy, celebration, or ritual performance. Scholars have debated their significance, linking the smiles to possible shamanic performances, religious rituals, music, dance, or even states of altered consciousness (possibly induced by hallucinogens or pulque).

Figures often wore ornate headdresses and earspools, signifying status or participation in ceremonial events. The glyph-like designs on the headdress is characteristic of the style and region.

Some scholars suggest that these figures may represent performers, musicians, or dancers, possibly connected to Xochipilli, the Mesoamerican god of music and joy

Size  6 in H. x 6-1/2 wide at top headdress; 7-3/8 inches H. on  custom mount. 

Provenance  From the Estate of Joyce Kootz, wife of Gallerist Sam Kootz. For more on Vera cruz see Ancient Art of Vera cruz, Ethnic Arts Council of L.A., 1971.  Also see Ceremonial Sculpture of Ancient Vera cruz, Hillwood Art Center, Long Island University, 1987.