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Unique Four Eyes Maximon
$2500

20_6_at_02
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"San Simon" or "Maximon" is an Indigenous Deity that had to be dressed as a Catholic Saint in order to survive the Spanish Inquisition. Some believe he represents "Judas Iscariot"; who has been sent back to Earth to perform good acts and wash away his sins. On Good Saturday, a puppet representing Judas is sited on the entrance of local churches, begging for offerings for the Cofradía or Religious Brotherhoods. At three o'clock he will be hanged at the church's atrium and during the night his body will be burned. People from all social status visit the main "Maximon" Temples in the country; San Andres Itzapa (near Antigua), San Andres Xecúl (near Totonicapán) and Santiago (at Atitlan Lake) especially during October 28th, the Day of Saint Judas. Depending of the candle colours believers will pray for help on good or evil acts. Beer, "Octavos" (liquor), cigars, food and specific plants are required to prepare a "Limpia" or cleansing to get rid of bad luck and evil spirits. The skin of this mask has a unique pinkish colour that was formed by mixing liquor and smoke ; elements that are common in Maximón’s Temple. The rare forehead-eyes made with blue glass, can indicate that Maximón can see beyond the common sight. This piece has delicate high relief carved hair, moustache and sideburns; painted eyelashes and eyebrows, and a slightly damaged nose. The piece was carved in hard wood as the inside demonstrates. Please notice that the price includes FREE USPS Shipping

Map
Age: Approximately carved in the 1930’s.
Ethnic Group: K’iché
Origin: Samayac, Suchitepéquez
Materials: hard Wood
Use: Mask for a Maximón Puppet
Technique: hand carved
Size: Approximately 7” x 6” x 7”
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