This cross design was influenced by Mexican art seen so often throughout the Southwest. "Cinco de Mayo," Mexican independence day, celebrates the victory of Mexico over the French; the Resurrected Christ proclaims victory over death, ultimate independence. The image, with its skeletal quality, also conjures up something of the feeling of the Mexican Day of the Dead, when the beloved dead are remembered and memorialized. When we look upon the cross we remember our Beloved who died and rose for us. The image of the cross is a memorial. "We remember how you loved us, to your death, and still we celebrate for you are with us here..." Finally, this Christ figure echoes something of the Mexican "Milagros, " metal images of sick or damaged body parts, that are placed near a statue or picture of a saint as a prayer for healing. Jesus is our healing... (for more on Milagros: http://www.collectorsguide.com/fa/fa052.shtml )
This particular piece was cast in a mold of steatite or "soapstone." This necessitated carving the image backward on a smooth slab of soapstone, accounting for its simple, rustic quality.
The Cinco de Mayo cross on 18" leather cord comes in a Minsart Studio gift box with an informational enclosure card.
Minsart Studio . 8691 Supervisor Ave . Colden, New York 14033