A Veracruz Howling Paca...

Description

A Veracruz Howling Paca
Gulf Coast, Mexico, Early Classic Period, c. 300-600 AD

This life-size ceramic depicts a seated, howling paca, a large rodent native to the tropical forests of southern Mexico and Central America. Modeled with an upturned head, gaping mouth exposing fangs, extended forelegs, and backward-folded ears, the animal conveys a dramatic sense of sound and presence. Around its neck hangs a thick twisted rope collar, a telling detail that identifies the creature as a captive, its cry caught at a moment of restraint. The rounded abdomen, taut limbs, and carefully incised mouth reflect the sculptor's acute observation of animal anatomy, while traces of pigment suggest its once vivid surface. Reassembled from around 7 to 9 original parts with professional restoration over the break lines and joins.

The paca (Cuniculus paca), prized for its tender meat, was an important food source in ancient Veracruz. The fact that the female produced her litter in spring also lent it symbolic associations with fertility and renewal. Sculptures of this size and refinement are linked to the Tlacotalpan region along the Río Papaloapan, an area known for its production of large-scale ceramics.

Monumental in scale and vivid in expression, this howling paca is a masterwork of Veracruz ceramic sculpture. Its naturalism, symbolic power, and fine state of preservation make it one of the most important animal effigies of Early Classic Mesoamerica. It is further distinguished by its important record of exhibition and publication.

Provenance:
Acquired by the current collection in 1995
Ancient Art of the New World, New York, NY
Deborah Kennedy, Portland, OR
Dr. and Mrs. George C. Kennedy, Los Angeles, CA, acquired prior to 1968.

Published:
Ancient Art of Veracruz, Ethnic Arts Council of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 1971, fig. 49.
Von Winning, Hasso, Pre-Columbian Art of Mexico and Central America, Abrams, 1968, fig. 250.

Exhibited:
Ancient Art of Veracruz, Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History, Los Angeles, February 23 - June 13, 1971.

Height: 27 inches

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