Death Cart by George T. Lopez

George Lopez, Cordova, New Mexico

Circa 1960 | Wood | Item 1905

Artist George T. Lopez (1900 – 1993) learned the art of woodcarving from his father and as a devout Catholic devoted himself to the carving of santos. Death carts are a particularly New Mexican art form, appearing in the Holy week procession of the brotherhood (Penitentes). The carts represent the power of Death during the Crucifixion and the Resurrection, and the ritual foretells the miracle of Christ’s triumph over death. Accompanied with the cart are a bow with string, a hammer, a mallet and a knife. The cart is signed underneath as seen in the photos. The wig used is likely not original, and falls off easily. There is a photo showing “Death” without the hair piece.