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Lot Essay
The present lot presents elements that are traditional of El día de los Muertos which originated with the Aztecs and was slightly altered by the Spaniards. It coincides with the Christian celebrations of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (November 1st and 2nd). El día de los Muertos celebrates life as it is embraces death: the skeletons dance and sing; flowers, fruits and candies decorate altars. The ofrenda, an offering of goods is set out on the Altar of Christ. Here, water is also essential, as after the long journey from eternity the souls are believed to be thirsty and tired.
This painting, which at first sight can be viewed as just a still life, is full of meaning where particular elements of the celebration are assembled. A characteristic treat for this day are the calabaza candies which are made from huge green Mexican squash called Calabaza de Castilla, grown expressly for this purpose. Also the Pan de Muerto with its round knob and strips of dough covered with sugar is a special treat for the dead. María Izquierdo incorporates the elements of the holiday and utilizes festive earthy colors to pay homage in her unique and personal manner to one of the most important traditions in Mexico. Looking at this painting we understand why the writer Jorge Juan Crespo refers to María Izqueirdo's 1940's paintings as the best Bodegones of the modern school of Mexican painting.
This painting, which at first sight can be viewed as just a still life, is full of meaning where particular elements of the celebration are assembled. A characteristic treat for this day are the calabaza candies which are made from huge green Mexican squash called Calabaza de Castilla, grown expressly for this purpose. Also the Pan de Muerto with its round knob and strips of dough covered with sugar is a special treat for the dead. María Izquierdo incorporates the elements of the holiday and utilizes festive earthy colors to pay homage in her unique and personal manner to one of the most important traditions in Mexico. Looking at this painting we understand why the writer Jorge Juan Crespo refers to María Izqueirdo's 1940's paintings as the best Bodegones of the modern school of Mexican painting.