aztec

Artisans from the Angel Cerón Artisan Association are inspired by the concept of duality in Aztec spirituality and art for the design of this mask. "Existential duality between life and death is at the root of all conflict within oneself, and in relationship with others. We are born with both impulses, that of living and evolving, and that of dying," explain the Mexican artisans. Experts in pre-Hispanic art, the artisans craft a ceramic mask in which the green side of the face symbolizes life, and the other represents a skull. An ornate headdress with serpents, an eagle and two suns underscore the divine theme of this mask.

Tlaloc is the god of rain in a number of Mesoamerican cultures, beginning with the vast city of Teotihuacan where he was also venerated as a fertility god. Deity of earthly waters and fertility, Tlaloc was believed to be responsible for drought as well as for floods in ancient Teotihuacan. This belief spread throughout Mexico, reaching the Maya who referred to him as Chaac, and from there to Central American cultures. Morneo depicts his own interpretation of the pre-Hispanic rain god in bright colors. The Mexican artisan works in papier-maché, crafting and painting the signature mask by hand.

The sacred feathered snake, Quetzalcoatl, also visits Pedro Linares' fever dream, inspiring Esteban Hernandez to create this stunning alebrije sculpture in honor of Mexico's heritage. The artwork, made from sturdy copal wood, features the deity of knowledge and arts in a vibrant palette of viridian, plum, redwood and yellow hues adorning its feathers with a traditional pattern.

This magnetic wall mask is a true homage to the revered jaguar deity at the heart of several Mesoamerican cultures. Handcrafted with utmost mastery by Mexican artisan Morneo, this exquisite design comes to life through the meticulous shaping of papier mache, adorned with enchanting hand-painted motifs and a palette of captivating hues. Coats of meticulously applied protective lacquer not only safeguard its timeless charm but also elevate its radiant sheen, making it a truly irresistible work of art.

Perceived by the Maya and Aztecs as a divine creature, the quetzal is today an emblem of Guatemala's diverse nature. Artisan Rodrigo Ramos expresses his love and pride for this enchanting bird in this pinewood figurine, hand-carved and painted by himself. The piece, masterfully finished with floral details, also displays a harmonious palette of green hues.