Huichol Beadwork Moon Mask, "Moon with Sun"

An enigmatic embodiment of the duality that exists between the sun and moon, this extraordinary mask by Higinio Hernandez Carrillo glows with ancestral magic. Cool buds of jicuri (peyote), central to Huichol mysticism, adorn the cheeks; peyote is revered for its curative properties and its ability to enlighten the one who partakes of it.

The fiberglass mask is cast carefully smoothed, and coated with beeswax. The artisan then applies each tiny chaquira bead, using a needle to place each one with precision.

Alhough shaped like the moon, this piece "is an offering to the sun, tatáta," Hernandez tells us. "It is always necessary to make offerings to the gods to receive their favors and protection."

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