This remarkablenahual by Demetrio Cortes appears to exist between human and animal. Its body moves close to the ground on four legs, decorated with detailed painted patterns, while the face is clearly human, with blue eyes, heavy brows, and a striking black beard framed by pointed animal ears. The effect is mystical, captivating, and expressive.
Demetrio’s painting is highly detailed. The hind legs show bold geometric shapes, the shoulders have small grid-like designs, and the body features bands of spirals, triangles, dots, and fine lines. Bright green ridges along the back give it a modern touch. Each angle reveals something new in the carving.
The subject draws on the ancient Mesoamerican idea of the nahual, a person connected to an animal counterpart or, in some traditions, able to take on an animal form. This idea has appeared in many cultures and times, but the link between human and animal identity is always central. Demetrio Cortes brings this old idea into the present, showing both human and animal together in one sculpture.
This piece is hand-carved from copal wood and carefully hand-painted in Oaxaca, making it a true example of Mexican folk art. Its impact comes from both the detailed painting and the figure's mystic qualities.
