gifts we love

The complex heritage of Mexico can be seen in their Day of the Dead traditions, which are complicated blends of thought from the ancestors, the Aztec, Maya, and Spaniards, and Catholic belief. Preparing an altar by placing photographs, flowers, candles, favorite foods and drinks of the loved one is an invitation to the spirit of dead loved ones to return home to share memories, laughter and tears.

Since 1910, the Catrina name refers a well dressed woman. She is "The Bony One," "The Skinny One," and death personified. Inspired by the caricatures of lithographer Jose Guadalupe Posada, Catrina is an important personage in Mexico's November 2 Day of the Dead celebrations. She takes centre stage in this colourful gift box. Catrina and her husband, El Catrin appear on a set of four decoupage coasters along with a white sugar skull. The skull theme is repeated in a hand-painted candle. A small portrait of Catrina is encased in a petite tin frame, protected by a glass pane, for wall display.

Working with recycled metal auto parts carefully chosen and welded together, Mexican artisan Armando Ramirez designs and crafts this magnificent sculpture that depicts a fearsome shark. The sculpture is an ideal gift for all ocean lovers.

This delightfully romantic sculpture is from Armando Ramirez, who creates his artworks from recycled auto parts and scrap metal. The rustic sculpture depicts a pair of lovers, just about to embrace, sitting in the curve of a crescent moon. Spark plugs, washers and metal rod, as well as other parts, form the unique and eco-positive piece.

For a delightful addition to any kitchen or dining room, two hens are lovely. Mexican artisan Gorky Gonzalez crafts these salt and pepper shakers from ceramic in the traditional style of majolica handicrafts, featuring a hand-painted design in a variety of colors. One shaker features one hole under the beak, while the other features two holes. Each shaker is marked with the artisan's initials, as well as the letters "AT" for Alfarería Tradicional (Traditional Pottery).