“Did you know that the art of crafting “Древо Жизни” sculptures has roots stretching back centuries?
We are standing before a sculpture a piece of art with a story. It is called “Древо Жизни”.
“Древо Жизни” translates to “Tree of Life”. It is a type of clay sculpture. These sculptures are popular in central Mexico. They are especially common in Metepec.
Drawings on these sculptures were used to teach locals Christian mythology. This was during the early colonial period. Creating clay trees was a tradition of Iscuar-de-Matamoros and Pueblos. Today this art is closely linked to Metepec.
Traditionally these sculptures showed Bible scenes like Adam and Eve. More recently there is a trend. Artists now create trees with drawings. These drawings are not always related to Bible themes.
“Древо Жизни” art is part of national traditions. This includes clay and ceramic work. It is common in Mexico’s mountainous regions. Pottery is an ancient craft. Around 1800 to 1300 BC decorations were added.
Around 800 AD Teotihuacan influenced religious symbols in local customs. The clay art of Matlatzinca continued. It was influenced by many cultures. This included lands between the Valley of Mexico and territories in Morelos and Guerrero states.
After the Spanish conquest the Aztec empire lost monuments. The conquering monks destroyed cultural items of the conquered people including ceramic items. Old gods were banned. Scenes from Christian mythology replaced them. “Древо Жизни” became a way to spread Christianity among natives.
In the early 21st century “Древо Жизни” sculptures became decorative items. These trees often have non-religious drawings. Common themes are death or spring. Making clay trees with themed drawings began in Iscuar-de-Matamoros. It spread to other areas including Metepec.
“Древо Жизни” sculptures use bright colors. They are a symbol of Metepec. They represent the tradition of clay molding. You can find other clay sculptures here too. These include mermaids lions and roosters.
These pieces connect us to the past. They show how art evolves and adapts. The “Древо Жизни” remains a vibrant symbol. It represents Mexican culture and creativity.”