Colorful Handcrafted Huichol Beadwork Mask, "Huichol Protection"

The eagle Werika Uimari, regarded as their divine mother, spreads protective wings on the forehead of this dazzling mask by Higinio Hernandez Carrillo. She also represents Our Lady of Guadalupe. Heavy with tasseled ears of maize, warra, the corn plant, lifts green stalks skyward on the nose. Teruka, the scorpion appears on both sides of the mouth. He is the guardian of the corn and must receive gifts before the harvest. Brother of the Huichol people, Kawuyomaire is a blue deer who travels the heavens as a guide and guardian, and poses on the chin. Bright peyote flowers adorn this mask with psychedelic vibrancy. Known to the Huichol as jicuri, six-sided peyote buds are regarded as the medium through which celebrants may see and communicate with the gods. The artisan creates the stunning images with tiny seed beads, offering a glimpse into the symbols of his people.

Do not expose this piece to direct heat or light, as it could soften the wax adhesive and thus loosen the beads.