Spirit of Chiapas: The Expressive Art of the Roof Cross Tradition

Rating:
Summary: A unique Mexican folk art
Review: Spirit of Chiapas, a handsomely illustrated new book by Virginia and Robert Guess, is a fascinating study of the roof crosses of Chiapas, a folk art unique to this Maya region of southern Mexico.
This authoritative account, the product of many years of research, details the rich social and religious history, variety and iconography associated with this disappearing folk tradition.

After a discussion of the role and symbolism of the cross in Christian and Maya tradition, Spirit of Chiapas continues with a full description and stylistic analysis of the different cross forms, based in part on the noted Frans Blom collection of metal crosses in San Cristóbal de Las Casas. There is also a comprehensive street by street guide to the roof crosses of San Cristóbal, the old colonial capital.
Robert Guess' fine color pictures complement the authoritative text and add special distinction to the book.

This timely volume - the only published study of this unique folk art - not only serves to publicly document this dying tradition but, it is hoped, may lead to its authentic revival. Guaranteed to appeal to lovers of hispanic folk art and folk traditions as well as travelers to Mexico.

(from the author of guides to colonial Mexico)