This head is a manifestation of Our Elder-Brother Blue Deer, Tamatsi Maxayuawi, who reveals his reality to worthy pilgrims at the end of their journey to the land where Our Ancestors paint our faces with their sacred designs, Wírikuta. It is in the east, where Our Father, Tayau, rises at dawn.

Our Elder-Brother is primarily a deer that offers his flesh out of mercy for us, but he is also transformed into Our Mother Peyote, Tatéi Hikuri, (the peyote cactus buds that are depicted above his antlers and grow in the holy land of the desert). He is the mediator between the shaman and Our Ancestors, teaching us how to heal and to chant (as symbolized by the feathered arrow, at his right antler).

Our Elder-Brother also transforms into Our Mother Corn, Tatéi Niwétsika, (corn-husk, at his left antler), thus revealing his triple nature as deer, peyote and corn. His words appear like dewdrops to those who make their vows to him and he cries with joy as he reaches the holy land of Wírikuta after much self-sacrifice.

The Head of Our Elder-Brother Blue Deer
Artist: Juan Ríos Martínez,
1973, 60cm. x 60cm.
Interpretation by Juan Negrín
based on a taped explanation with the artist
©Juan Negrín ~ 1973 - 2003 All rights reserved