Bidspirit auction | West Mexican Colima Style Redware

West Mexican Colima Style Redware Ceramic Dancing Dogs Sculptural Group - This ceramic sculptural group is attributed to the Colima culture of West Mexico, characteristic of the Shaft Tomb tradition. The piece depicts two animals, commonly identified in a market context as dancing dogs or Xoloitzcuintli, rendered in a joined position. The figures are constructed from red-slipped terracotta with a burnished reddish-brown finish. Iconographic elements include incised concentric spiral motifs on the head of the lower animal and vertical incised lines along the flanks of the upper animal suggesting ribs or pelt markings. Both animals are depicted wearing thick, banded collars and feature almond-shaped eyes with wide, toothy grins. Small circular vent holes are located on the rear flanks of both figures, a technical feature used to prevent bursting during the firing process. In West Mexican iconography, these canine figures are frequently associated with funerary rites, serving as guides for the deceased. No specific provenance or archaeological history was provided for this item. 8.5 inches tall 9 inches in width The piece is in good overall condition with surface wear and abrasions consistent with age and handling. Visible deposits of earth and light-colored mineral accretions are present across the surface. No major cracks or professional restorations are apparent from visual inspection.