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Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Toad
Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
© Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami. All rights reserved.

Toad

Artist/Maker (Gulf Coast, Mexico)
Artist/Maker (Pacific Coast, Mexico)
Dateca. 800-300 BCE
Mediumbasalt and shell
DimensionsOverall: 5 x 10 3/4 x 7 3/8 in. (12.7 x 27.3 x 18.7 cm)
ClassificationsVisual Works
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Barry Fitzmorris
Terms
    Object number2007.52.5
    DescriptionAvid observers of their natural environment, ancient Mesoamerican artists attached great symbolic meaning to animals according to the main behavioral characteristics of each creature. The long life span and process of skin regeneration of the toad led to its identification with longevity and the fertility of the earth. The species most commonly represented is Bufo marinus, which was abundant in the tropical environment of the Gulf coast lowlands. This beautiful stone sculpture has been carved in basalt with shell inlays in the eyes and along the body. The head is upright and two arched eyebrows accentuate the circular shell eyes. The nostrils are marked by two minute orifices drilled into the stone and a long, curving line indicates the mouth. The back of the amphibian is decorated with a curvilinear motif and more shell inlays. The lower limbs include a spiral motif delicately incised into the stone. The shape and iconography of this sculpture achieve a harmonious balance between the naturalistic representation of the toad and the idealization of its symbolic power. As symbols of the regeneration of the earth, toads appear in the art of Mesoamerica from ancient times into the modern period.
    On View
    Not on view
    Collections
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
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    ca. 250-550
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    ca. 1500-400 BCE
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    ca. 600-900
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