1-7506 Zapotec Urn (likely modern)

Zapotec Urns were ceramic vessels with either anthropomorphic or zoomorphic effigies attached (famsi.org). The majority of urns were utilized in mortuary rituals and practices. This is an example of a Zapotec Urn from the Classic period (250-900 CE). The ceramic style of the Zapotec is that of greyware. Examples of artifacts, such as this one, are commonly found in Oaxaca, Mexico. Iconography that can be found on this urn, in particular, are earflares. A significant number of Zapotec Urns found in collections are not Classic Pre-Columbian pieces. It is more than likely that this dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. It appears to have been artifically darkened, as there is a dark patina only on the raised and exposed areas of the object. The patina does not sit within the carvings and lines, meaning it is not a natural deposit of dirt. http://www.famsi.org/research/zapotec/index.html Foundation for the Advancement of Mesoamerican Studies, INC. [famsi.org](http://famsi.org)