(1) Hand carved and painted Barro Negro Catrina, 13” tall approx.
Discover the timeless allure of La Catrina, the iconic Grand Dame of Death, as she graces Day of the Dead celebrations, paying homage to ancestors and luminaries who've transcended this world. La Catrina gained global fame through Diego Rivera's 1947 mural, "Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Park," where she mingles with Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and other historical luminaries.
Our hand-painted Mexican Catrina figurines are a testament to exquisite artistry and radiant hues. Crafted from clay and meticulously adorned by our skilled artisans, each Catrina showcases their mastery, from intricate dresses to ornate facial makeup.
Rooted in Aztec mythology with ties to Mictecacihuatl, the underworld queen, La Catrina embodies the indigenous tradition of honoring the departed. It has evolved into an emblem of Dia de Los Muertos, recognized globally as an indispensable presence on altars.
Delve into history, as La Catrina emerged in 1910 through Mexican Illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada's satirical lithographs, revealing the tensions between the Mexican elite's European aspirations and the impending Mexican Revolution of 1911. Posada's work vividly expressed the frustrations of the working class toward the ruling elite.
Introducing the Artisan Behind Our Day of the Dead Catrina. Meet Samuel Torres, hailing from the picturesque town of Panotla in Tlaxcala, Mexico. Samuel is not just a craftsman but a true sculptor, passionately shaping clay and wood into magnificent forms for two decades. His journey into this world of artistic creation has been nothing short of remarkable.
Samuel's artistic roots run deep in his family, with three to four family members joining him in his craft. Over the years, his dedication and mastery of working with wood and clay have earned him numerous accolades. To date, he has received more than 40 awards, both at the national and state levels.
In 2019 and 2021, Samuel proudly clinched the prestigious Great Masters of Popular Art award, further cementing his status as a master artisan. This recognition highlights his exceptional skills and devotion to preserving the rich traditions of Mexican folk art.
As a child, Samuel's creativity was born out of necessity. Sent to the countryside to tend to cows, he lacked toys but found solace in the malleability of mud. It was during these early years that he began crafting clay toys, sparking the beginning of his artistic journey.
What truly sets Samuel apart is his remarkable ability to infuse his creations with profound emotions and moments. Each piece he crafts is a manifestation of his feelings, a testament to his passion for preserving and celebrating the artistry of Tlaxcala.
YOUR PURCHASE MAKES A DIFFERENCE:
- Artisan Made
- Preserves Tradition
- Supports Small Business
- Job Creator
- Hecho en Mèxico
