Standing Female Figure

Ancient Veracruz artists used ceramic to create figural sculptures in a range of sizes, styles, and types. This beautiful, finely wrought female figure is an exceptional example. Although her identity is unknown, her adornments signal high status: ear ornaments, a large necklace, an elaborate dress that drapes over her outstretched arms, and perhaps even her front teeth, filed into a T shape, may have symbolic importance. The unfinished back, with a tripod support, suggests that the figure was meant to be seen from the front.