Guatemala is known the world over for its colorful processions during Cuaresma, leading up to Easter Sunday . . and, just happens to be in the center of Maya civilization and tradition.
One of the most unique of these Guatemalan religious processions and celebrations is that in Santiago Atitlán, an indigenous village, where one can find a spectacular blending of Mayan and Catholic traditions . . . a mixture of cultures and religions.
Statues, figures, artwork of all types line the walls .. many dressed in traditional costumes worn by the area’s indigenous Maya population. They are especially fond of the Virgin Mary.
Just 34 miles away in Antigua Guatemala, the same such ceremonies occur, the blending of the two. This handcarved Virgin Mary Santo statue is not a tourist piece but attended many of these ceremonies . . . for many years.
It is in wonderful shape with no repairs or damage, thereby making it a rare find. 15.5” tall x 5” at the widest x 3.5” deep. From the 1950s.