Artwork Page for Female Figure

Details / Information for Female Figure

Female Figure

100 BCE–700 CE

Peru, South Coast, Nasca

Medium
earthenware with colored slips
Measurements
Overall: 28.6 x 13.4 x 10.3 cm (11 1/4 x 5 1/4 x 4 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1997.184
Public Domain
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Location
232 Andean
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Description

This figure, which may once have worn small garments, might be a tomb offering. Her tapered head reflects the practice of cranial shaping, which may identify her social group and serve as a mark of beauty. Her fleshy hips likely refer to human and plant fertility, since food is the source of such bodily wealth. Her identity is unknown.
An earthenware sculpture depicts a stocky, standing woman with matte tan skin and black slip details. A flat cap of hair crowns her head, and almond-shaped eyes sit above an open mouth revealing teeth. Short arms and thick legs flank her torso, featuring a visible navel and breasts. Black grid lines mark her flat feet, while her right hand shows wear against her sturdy, front-facing frame.

Female Figure

100 BCE–700 CE

Peru, South Coast, Nasca

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