The Skeleton at the Feast: The Day of the Dead in Mexico

Carmichael, Elizabeth; Sayer, Chloė

ISBN 10: 0292776586 / ISBN 13: 9780292776586

Published by University of Texas Press, 1992

Gently read. May have name of previous ownership, or ex-library edition. Binding tight; spine straight and smooth, with no creasing; covers clean and crisp. Minimal signs of handling or shelving. 100% GUARANTEE! Shipped with delivery confirmation, if you're not satisfied with purchase please return item! Ships USPS Media Mail. Seller Inventory # OTV.0292776586.VG

Synopsis:

All over Mexico, early in November, families gather to welcome the souls of the dead on their annual visit home. The smells of burning copal incense and pungent cempasśchil (marigolds) mingle with the aromas of fresh bread, new clothing, sweets, and candles. One of Mexico's most important festivals since prehispanic times, the Day of the Dead is an occasion for celebrating and feasting, cleaning and decorating graves, dancing and making music.

In this unique work, the authors explore both the historic origins of this holiday and its colorful present-day celebrations in Mexico and the United States. Interviews with Mexican artists and crafters who provide goods for the festival—from personalized sugar skulls to gigantic papier-māché skeletons—offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional and contemporary attitudes toward death and the dead.

Lavishly illustrated with color and black-and-white photographs, The Skeleton at the Feast will be required reading for all who are interested in Mexican culture, art, and folklore.

About the Author:

Elizabeth Carmichael is curator of the Latin American collections of the British Museum. Chloė Sayer is author of several books on Mexico.

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Skeleton at the Feast: The Day of the ...
Publisher: University of Texas Press
Publication Date: 1992
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: very_good