Regarding the Mesoamerican West, in particular the Michoacan zone of Apatzingan, John M. Goggin and Isabel Kelly in the 1940s made certain objects known that were locally known as "tapaderas" ("lids"). These were supposed to have functioned as censer covers, despite their matching counterparts not being found; Kelly pointed out that they could stand on stones.
The most recognized "lids" often have a figurative appearance. In addition to those of Michoacan, those from another culture denominated the New Tradition also stand out, based in Colima between 600 and 900 A.D. One of the most distinctive features of the ceramic style called Capiral, by Apatzingan, is the decoration by means of incisions and elongated edges that cover the body of the lid, as we can see on the piece we see here.
The basic form is that of an inverted bowl, the interior has no traces of smoke that would indicate an association with the burning of incense. There are two quadrupeds that may represent different animals: the edges and zigzag lines that cross the body of the main figure are reminiscent of the shell of the armadillo, whose bony plates make up the rings that allow it to roll up when in dangerous situations; the pointed snout likewise resembles that of the armadillo.
Its a short tail is also pointed and there are three strange circular applications on the ears and on the head, as well as a necklace. These ornaments could refer to an animal that had been inserted into a cultural environment and had special attributes rather than in its natural state. The small figure that serves as a handle is smooth and may be a dog. The name of this type of lid comes from a village in the municipality of Apatzingan, El Capiral. In this place, on the north bank of the Apatzingan River, there were numerous burials accompanied by offerings, and among them lids.
The Capiral lids are diagnostic of the ancient art of the Apatzingan valley, whose pre-Columbian past is still poorly understood. The valley is located in Tierra Caliente (Hot Lands), a province located in the vicinity of Michoacan, Guerrero and the State of Mexico. Its name comes from the high temperatures of the area. These lands sit at a low altitude and are surrounded by the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and the Neovolcanic Axis; although this did not imply that it was an isolated land. It is a mining area and thus metallic objects, such as bells, chisels and tools for production are found.
Regarding the Mesoamerican West, in particular the Michoacan zone of Apatzingan, John M. Goggin and Isabel Kelly in the 1940s made certain objects known that were locally known as "tapaderas" ("lids"). These were supposed to have functioned as censer covers, despite their matching counterparts not being found; Kelly pointed out that they could stand on stones.
