Puebla. La Casa del Dean murals:The Friezes

The Friezes
As noted earlier, one of the most intriguing aspects of the  Casa del Dean murals is the extraordinary friezes that frame the processions above and below, in particular the various animals portrayed.

   Although overall, the friezes follow the traditional grotesque pattern seen in the monasteries: stylized forms of flowers, vines and cornucopia, angels and mythical beasts, etc, elements like native birds, monkeys, serpents and even wild men, add piquant touches to the conventional designs. 

 

However, it is the array of anthropomorphic animals displayed in the cartouches embedded in the friezes that especially capture the viewer’s attention. Most of those shown are native to the Americas. All are portrayed seated, some on traditional petate thrones, and engaged in a variety of indigenous ritual activities —writing, singing, playing musical instruments, and drinking chocolate or pulque.

The physical portrayal of these creatures with their pre hispanic emblematic significance, added a powerful layer of meaning for the indigenous viewer. 

text © 2020 Richard D. Perry.  

 images © Juan Carlos Varillas and Niccolo Brooker. 

principal source: La Casa del Dean...New World Imagery in a Sixteenth-Century Mexican Mural Cycle Penny C. Morrill. 2014. U. of Texas Press