Fair Trade Huichol Hand Beaded Papier Mache Mask, "Spirit of the Blue Deer"

A mask to commemorate Huichol customs, this piece celebrates Tamaxi Wuimare, the spirit of the blue deer. Known as Kawuyumaire, this deer is regarded as the Huichol people's older brother; he is a messenger to the gods. It is believed he guides the shaman during spiritual rituals. Higinio Hernández celebrates the essence and nature of this divine deer as he outlines the jicurí (peyote flower) in blue, in honor of the blue deer. When the sacred flower is ingested, participants are able to see Kawuyumaire or his spirit, Tamaxi Wuimare. Two bright and smiling suns occupy the cheeks while the shaman rests on the temples. The mask's hairdo features two burning candles, which the shaman lights before conjuring up the spirit of the blue deer.

To craft this piece, Hernandez carefully affixes colorful beads or chaquira upon a paper mache base, using a natural wax of his own preparation, known as cera de Campeche. This work is an extraordinary testimonial of pre-Hispanic shamanic rituals that have transcended the passing of time and history.

Care instructions: To prevent the yarn-work from coming loose, do not expose this piece to direct heat or light as it may melt the Campeche wax adhesive.