Hugo Licta (Ecuador, 20th-21st century)
Scene with Shaman (Curandero) Performing Purification (La Limpia) or Healing Ritual
acrylic on sheep skin; wooden stretcher; unframed
circa 2001
Tigua, Ecuador
dimensions: 24 x 29.7 cm
signed, center of bottom edge: "Hugo Licta"
acquired in Ecuador by Jack Daulton in 2001 directly from the artist's spouse
The Cotopaxi volcano is depicted in the center background; the Tigua people believe that the Cotopaxi volcano is sacred (as are other mountains), being identified with a divinity. As part of the continuous narrative of Licta’s composition, on the upper left of the canvas we see the shaman beseech the volcano and/or the moon (also sacred) for protection before performing the healing ritual. The shaman wears a poncho that is red, a color associated with protection. To the right of the volcano, a spirit is shown, perhaps the spirit associated with the volcano or the moon or perhaps the spirit of the wind.
