Guatemalan Wooden Owl – Chichicastenango Folk Art
Guatemalan Wooden Owl – Chichicastenango Folk Art
★★★★★ Rated 4.9/5 by collectors
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📜 Customer Commitment – All items are eligible for return or exchange within 14 days under our official policy.
Specifications
Character: Guardian Owl
Artist: Unknown K’iche’ Artisan
Origin: Chichicastenango, El Quiché, Guatemala
Material: Solid hand-carved pinewood with nailed wooden wings
Design: Folk-style owl with wide eyes, carved texture, and painted feather pattern
Palette: Burnt orange, black, cream, and earthy ochre
Vision: Embodies the Mayan belief in the owl as a night guardian and symbol of perception
Interior: Solid body construction
Hanger: None, freestanding display
Estimated Date: Mid to late 20th century
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor surface wear
Catalogue Note
This Chichicastenango owl was carved from a single block of pine and fitted with nailed wooden wings, a method typical of K’iche’ highland artisans. The owl’s stance and wide eyes speak to its role as a spiritual lookout, believed to protect homes from unseen forces of the night. Its paintwork, though simple, retains the confidence of folk art unbothered by precision, the human touch visible in every chisel mark.
Key Highlights
- Authentic Mayan folk carving from Chichicastenango
- Solid construction with hand-cut wooden wings
- Retains full original paint and patina
- 9.5 inches tall, substantial display presence
- Represents wisdom and night guardianship in highland tradition
Display and Care
Display indoors on a stable shelf or console. Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight to preserve pigment. Dust lightly with a dry cloth. Do not apply polish or moisture.
Attribution and Condition Notes
Attributed to K’iche’ woodcarvers working in the Chichicastenango region, where pinewood and natural pigments are common. The owl is fully intact with age-appropriate wear, visible nails on the wings, and no repairs or overpainting.
FAQ
Is the piece hand-carved?
Yes, carved by hand from solid pine with attached wings.
Does it stand on its own?
Yes, it is freestanding and well-balanced.
Where is it shipped from?
Ships from Taos, New Mexico within 24 hours. 14-day easy returns.
