Veracruz- Smiling figure. 300-900 AD. Smiling figures (called “Sonrientes” in Spanish) are one of the most intriguing examples of Mesoamerican ceramic artistry, part of a long-standing tradition of hollow ceramic figures produced in south-central Veracruz throughout the Precolumbian period. The animated expression that is responsible for their name is surprising in Mesoamerican art, where emotion of any kind is rarely depicted. Most smiling figures lack any information concerning their original context, limiting our understanding of their purpose and meaning. This sonriente wears a necklace, a headdress, earrings and a loincloth. He raises both hands. It is inside a box, with an antique label behind. Provenance: Acquired in a German art gallery. Ex Prof. Dr. Fritz Hahn (1907-1982). Attached export certificate from Germany. The Supplier warrants that he obtained this lot legally. Provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Important: For destinations out of Spanish territory: all our objects will be shipped after obtaining CERTIFICATE OF EXPORTATION by Ministry of Culture of Spain. We inform our clients that it may take between 4-8 weeks.