NOVICA Artisan Handmade Ceramic Ocarina Western Mexico Prehispanic Grey Dog Flute Musical instrument Wind 'Grey Aztec Puppy'

Novica works together with talented artists, artisans, and designers around the world to produce stunning, keepsake handmade treasures.About this item: Seated obediently, this plump little dog replicates those found in shaft tombs throughout Western Mexico. Angel Ceron Artisan Association members depict the xoloitzcuintle, a cheerful, barkless species prized by ancient man. Sculpted in clay as funerary offerings, they accompanied their masters in death to aid the soul in crossing rivers of blood along the road of the dead. The cheerful hairless pup with wrinkled skin takes shape as a terracotta ocarina, a whistle-like flute believed to have been used in ancient ceremonies. Not a toy. Not intended for use by age 12 or under.|Signed by the artist|Instrument Rating: Beginner quality, intended for casual use|Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly|Features an aged antique finishAbout our Artist: Latest UpdateI've been working hand-in-hand with you since 2003. It was my nephew, Eduardo Escamilla, who suggested this, and I found the project to be spectacular. As you may know, I'm an engineer by profession but I feel an overwhelming passion for our pre-Hispanic cultures. This is what led me to create my own representations of the deities from our past. This has been a process in which, together with my family, we've continuously perfected our designs and this is also because I love perfection.Thanks to all of you, I was able to become more independent and offer work to more families who assist me. Together with my nephew Eduardo, I've increased the number of designs so that our collection shows a wide range of sculptures.One of the most significant challenges I've had to face was my battle with cancer. Unfortunately, it's come back even more intensely, but every member of my family has always been with me. Sadly, my cancer is terminal now, and my

• Size: 8.25" H x 3.9" W x 6.25" D
• Handmade by Novica artisans using time-honored traditional methods
• Includes an official card certifying the item is authentic, artisan crafted and of exceptional quality
• Quality craftsmanship: Novica works with artisan Angel Ceron Artisan Association to craft this item
• Product info: Ceramic