Huichol Beaded Bear Figurine, "Scorpion Bear"

Miguel Díaz in Mexico crafts this marvelous small sculpture from papier mache, applying glass beads one by one in elabourate patterns in the traditional style of Huichol handicrafts. The bear figurine is adorned with a tortuka or scorpion, a creature believed by the Huichol to represent protection. The Huichol are an indigenous people of central northwest Mexico with a rich culture and artisanal heritage.