Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel
Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel

Colima Pottery Hunchback Cargador Vessel

16784

$895.00
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

West Mexico, Ca. 200 BC to 300 AD.   

This vessel depicts a male laborer in a dynamic, forward-leaning pose, the distinctive tump line slung across his forehead as he bears a uniquely compressed bundle sack on his back. The figure’s powerful stance and exaggerated hunchback form are not only a testament to the physical demands of ancient work but also reflect the Colima tradition of honoring individuals with unusual physical traits—often believed to hold special roles as shamans or figures of spiritual significance1.

The vessel’s deep, burnished red surface is highlighted by mineral deposits, offering a tactile connection to its centuries spent as a burial object in a shaft tomb—a hallmark of Colima funerary practice. Subtle painted details enliven the expressive face and robust limbs, while the overall sculptural composition exudes both strength and vulnerability.

Artifacts like this were created by the Colima culture, renowned for their sophisticated ceramics and vivid representations of everyday life, ritual, and myth. The hunchback motif, in particular, is celebrated for its symbolic resonance, evoking themes of transformation, resilience, and the intersection of the mundane with the mystical.

This vessel was most commonly created for use in burial rituals, placed in shaft tombs as offerings to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, serving both a symbolic and practical role.  The vessel’s spout and hollow body suggest it was designed to hold and pour liquids, such as water, fermented drinks, or ritual libations. In some cases, these vessels may have held small amounts of food, grains, or symbolic offerings intended to nourish or honor the ancestors.

Whether displayed as a centerpiece or as part of a curated collection, this vessel offers not only historical significance but also a striking visual narrative—a tangible link to a mysterious and vibrant ancient world.

Size 7-1/4 inches Height.

Deep burnished surface; mineral deposits on the surface.  

All pieces are unconditionally guaranteed authentic and as described in perpetuity and have been legally acquired and imported in full accordance with U.S. and applicable foreign regulations regarding the movement and sale of antiquities.

A signed guarantee of authenticity with a description and photograph of the item(s) accompanies this object.

We ship Tuesday to Friday with UPS or USPS and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.

For overseas shipments our shipping charge includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.

Overseas shipments are usually sent by courier but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes. 

You may also like

Recently viewed