This striking figure holds two oddly-shaped
objects in his hands. From the swinging motion
of his arms, they would appear to be rattles,
perhaps made from gourds or animal horn.
Buried centuries ago in a west Mexican tomb,
such a figure might well represent a mourner at
a funeral. The rhythmic beat of his rattles was
probably intended to frighten away evil spirits.
Even in a world that dismisses such notations as
superstition, there is something reassuring in
the way this fellow takes his protective duties
seriously.
- (PF.1922)
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