Object Name: Figure with protuberant back
Place of Origin: Colima, West Mexico
Date: Protoclassic, 200 B.C.E.-400 C.E.
Materials Used: Ceramic
Dimensions: H: 28.9 cm, W: 19.5 cm, D: 17.2 cm (H: 11.4 in, W: 7.7 in, D: 6.8 in)
Credit line and Accession Number: Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Skip Brittenham and Mr. and Mrs. Ken Ziffren. X81.250

Figures said to represent individuals with kyphosis (a protuberant upper back) had special significance in West Mexican society and are believed to have served a shamanic role. Some, like this figure, have one or more horns projecting from their heads.

Gallery text, Intersections: World Arts, Local Lives, 2006