Antonio Alonso: Emperor Xolo Cartoneria saint

Antonio Alonso: Emperor Xolo Cartoneria saintThis is one of Antonio Alonso's most symbolically rich pieces, a seated Xoloitzcuintle crowned with a magnificent radiating headdress of cut paper. The Xolo, Mexico's ancient hairless dog, was considered by the Aztecs to be a sacred guide for souls traveling to Mictln, the underworld, and Antonio renders him here with all the gravitas of that mythic role. The dog is sculpted in a noble seated posture, long forelegs straight beneath a deep chest, ears

Luis is recognized for his innovative wood sculptures and contemporary use of color and painting techniques

it stands proudly with a bright expression that feels almost ready for a friendly hug

all together

framed with golden and blue accents

eyes locked on something the animal alone can see

mid-kneel as if studying with full concentration

” With her beak open mid-chatter and wide

and the secrets reveal themselves

For the Aztecs and Maya

sleek body is covered in radiant geometric patterns that shift from deep water blues and greens at the head to warm oranges

rich in greens

and the painting tradition he carries forward