Vintage 4" tall hand-painted ceramic skull sculpture, Mexican folk art, Day of Dead sugar skull skeleton folk art, Mexican calavera art

Sorry, this item has sold.

Among hand-painted Day of the Dead skulls, this one stands out for the fine and intricate detail and skill with which it was rendered. On each side is a blue dove with golden yellow and orange wings, and a blue flower at the temple. The dark blue background feels almost celestial, with the flower of different sizes seeming like stars and constellations. I believe this hails from central Mexico and the Nahua peoples. The fine strokes are reminiscent of the alebrije sculptures from Oaxaca, which are typically made of wood, but some are ceramic. At any rate, this skull is homage to death, which in Mexico is part of life. The previous owner used the skull as a lantern and burned a small candle inside, and as a result the interior is charred, including the rims of the eye holes. No artist signature, although we know from looking at it that it could have taken hours, possibly several days to paint.

The skull sculpture measures about 4" tall and about 4" across at the widest point, and about 5" deep. The paint is matte finish but is almost vibrating with the whites and yellows quite bright. Other than the charring on the interior, in good vintage condition.

Not a huge piece yet a huge presence!


See my other vintage folk art here:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/romaarellano?section_id=17770625

And see all the items in my shop here:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/romaarellano

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  • Latin America and the Caribbean : 6 - 16 weeks

I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.

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    Reviews (1)

    Average:

    Absolutely love this item & it's better in person, packaged awesomely & I appreciate that so much


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