Jorge Ortega: Day of the Dead Emperor Dog Alebrije Woodcarving
Jorge Ortega: Day of the Dead Emperor Dog Alebrije Woodcarving
Fabulous skeleton dog by Jorge Ortega! He sits upright, regal and composed, like a miniature emperor from a distant realm. I love the elaborate feathered headdress in glowing reds and golds.
The face is especially beautiful. Jorge gives this little dog a calm, ceremonial expression, with fine black linework around the eyes and muzzle that reminds me of the decorative language of Day of the Dead art.
That idea is perfect, since dogs were so important in ancient Mesoamerican beliefs about death. Among the Nahua and Maya, dogs were thought to guide souls through the underworld, and the xoloitzcuintli became the ultimate companion for that journey. Jorge Ortega has so much fun with that tradition here, imagining the faithful guide not just as a companion, but as an emperor in his own right.
The result is humorous, dignified, and unmistakably Mexican; a wonderful fusion of ancient symbolism, Day of the Dead magic, and Jorge Ortega’s imagination.
