Product Description
These hand carved masks are made in the mountain village of Nahuala', Guatemala. The artisans of Nahuala' are famous for their hand carved altar tables, shrines, slingshots and animals. The bull is a frequent subject in Guatemalan masquerade. They are used in the Patzcar dance, as well as some others. This example shows some age, but has not been used much.
Día de los Muertos - Day of the Dead- What is it?
Día de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican and Latin American holiday held November 1st and 2nd, associated with the Catholic holiday of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. The holiday combines indigenous Aztec ritual and Catholicism. It is a lively and colorful holiday celebrating life and death.
El Día de los Muertos is not the Mexican version of Halloween as many consider it. It does share some similarities, among those costumes and parades; however, on Día de los Muertos it is believed that the border between the spirit world and the real-world dissolves. During this brief period, the souls of the dead awaken and return to the living to celebrate with loved ones. In turn, the family members treat the deceased as honored guests and bring along everything their loved one loved.
Día de los Muertos Symbols:
Día de los Muertos is a day filled with symbols. Everything from the altar, to the ofrendas, the marigolds, and the alebrijes. But, out of the many symbols used during Día de los Muertos, the most popular by far are calacas (skeletons) and calaveras (skulls).