Remojadas Monumental Sculpture

The region of Veracruz in eastern Mexico has provided archaeologists with highly interesting objects that have helped them gain insight to culture, technological advances, artistic achievements and religious practices of preclassic Olmecs. Among these objects are large-scale hollow clay sculptures. These remarkable hand-modeled figurines from central and southern Veracruz are known as “Remojadas”, named after the region in Veracruz where they were excavated.    

The sculptures range from 1’ to 2’ in size. Most of the Remojadas monumental sculptures of this type are represented standing with their arms held up in a ceremonial or dancing gesture, or with the arms down close to their thighs. Many of the figures are portrayed wearing headpieces with chin straps or short capes and have their face and body painted black. Some of these sculptures have been found in disconnected pieces and as result, the bodies may sometimes be reconstructed with ornaments, arms, legs or heads that do not belong to the original sculpture, making it a difficult task to categorize them chronologically and stylistically.

Remojadas figures are typically made of hollow tubes cut up to fit up against the torso and slipped into them. The head and neck are usually fitted over the hole in the top of the body. Clay is then added to smooth and strengthen the joint. Figures are dressed with flat layers of clay to make skirts or other clothing. Hands and feet join legs and arms and noses and jewelry are added last.

The figure shown here stands with her arms extended and palms turned up. This gesture may be one of welcome or greeting or possibly as a warning to an intruder of a tomb. The woman is dressed in what is possibly a ceremonial costume. She wears a wraparound skirt and her blouse, armbands and necklace are decorated with painted chapopote, natural shiny asphalt used to decorate or cover figurines. Her face and headdress also receive the same chapopote treatment. Many of the sculptures found represent deities. Some may represent a cihuacóatl, or woman snake, typically known as an evil deity. All text and images under copyright. For permission to use or citation information please contact the Collection Department. Information subject to change upon further research.