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The Dark
Side of Life
Irene
Aguilar
Mexico
Irene Aguilar is
from Ocotlan de Morelos in Oaxaca. Oaxaca has its own distinctive nativity
tradition. Mostly carved in wood, the figures tend to be angular and brightly
colored. There is an air of mystery and drama pervading Oaxacan nativity
figures. Their look is frequently somber, mouth and eyes sometimes bearing a
cruel streak. Although not prominent in this set, the animals tend to be
creatures of myth and evil fantasy. Ox and ass are frequently depicted as
colorful monsters guarding the baby. They also act as scapegoats carrying the
sins of creation to the manger. |