Nativity from Guatemala

“Rodrigo Canil’s father, who was a woodcarver, died when Rodrigo was a young boy. He began making his own carvings at the age of 15. He has six brothers, two sisters, and a three-year-old son. Rodrigo supports his family with his carvings, which he sells in the marketplace in Chichicastenango. His workshop has expanded over time, and he now manages 14 young artists.

Guatemala has a rich and diverse culture, which includes both Mayan and Spanish influences. Mayan culture is known for its brilliantly dyed textiles, which are woven into capes, shirts and dresses. The painted floral designs of this Nativity are most likely inspired by Guatemalan clothing.

The Christ Child lies on a manger in the shape of a rooster, and seems to be holding a toy in the shape of a chicken. This may be a symbolic reference to the Misa del Gallo (Mass of the Rooster), a Midnight Mass that Guatemalans celebrate on Christmas Eve. According to tradition, on the night the baby Jesus was born, a rooster crowed at midnight.” (Ed and Kirsten Gyllenhaal, label text, “World Nativities 2020”)