Giraffes

Materials: Wood, natural paints, enamel
Dimensions: Height 70 cm

In Guatemalan mythology and spirituality, nahuales are spiritual guides represented by different animals, each carrying its own meaning and positive message. In this context, giraffes symbolize a connection to an elevated and broad perspective of the world around us. Their extraordinary height represents the ability to see things from a higher and wider viewpoint, which can be interpreted as an invitation to consider the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in minor details of life.

Artistic representations of giraffes as nahuales in Guatemalan culture are crafted with care and precision in the region of Chichicastenango, located in the southern part of the Quiché Department. Made primarily of wood, these sculptures are meticulously carved by skilled artisans and then decorated with natural colors that enhance their beauty and spiritual significance.

Beyond being works of art, giraffe sculptures as nahuales are an expression of Guatemala’s rich cultural heritage. They represent the deep connection between the Guatemalan people and nature, as well as the wisdom and positive messages conveyed by nahuales in indigenous mythology.

Displaying these sculptures at home or in community spaces not only celebrates the beauty and creativity of Guatemalan art but also honors ancestral wisdom and spiritual connection with the natural world. They serve as reminders of the importance of maintaining a broad and elevated perspective in life, as well as appreciating the beauty and meaning that surround us in our environment.