The Messengers of Xibalbá
This sculpture represents a scene from the Popol Vuh, in which the grandmother Ixmucané searches for her grandchildren. To do so, she sends a louse to find them, which is devoured by a toad; the toad is eaten by a snake; the snake is hunted by a hawk. Finally, the twins Hunahpú and Xbalamké bring down the hawk with their blowguns. This story symbolizes the cycle of life and the power of nature, showing how the twins bravely face the forces of the world. The sculpture, carved in jade, reflects the connection between humanity, nature, and the divine in Mayan culture.
Artist: ENRIQUE MIGUEL PASCUAL
Enrique Pascual, of Maya Canjobal origin, was born in Santa Eulalia, Huehuetenango, Guatemala. He began working with jade in 1995, after a successful career in creating clay pieces. He started his work life as a messenger, but his passion for art led him to specialize in carving small jewelry pieces. Over time, he perfected his technique and expanded his work, moving into the creation of jade sculptures and masks.
