The Danza de la Pluma weapons of war consist of a small paddle (pala/macana) held in the left hand and a sonaja (rattle) held in the right (see images of danzantes in July 9 post).
The sonajas are decorated gourds attached to a deer leg or antler. During the dance, they mark the compass points and their sound is used to scare the opponents.
Each wooden pala is uniquely carved and decorated and serves as a baton and a shield in this dance that recreates the battles between the Spanish conquistadors and Moctezuma, his warriors, and allied kings.
Even Malinche (Quetzalli del Rayo Santiago Ruiz) carries a sonaja and a pala during parts of the dance. And, check out the reversible pala of Juan Pablo González Gutiérrez — red weaving surrounded by alebrije-like painting on one side and blue weaving and painting on the other. You can click on images to enlarge them. The creativity never ceases to amaze!
Shannon, I’ve always been intrigued by these, so thanks for the close ups. Do you know who makes them?
I know, they are always so unique. Juan Pablo said his uncle made his. I will ask some of the other dancers the next time I see them.
wonderful closeups & detail — thanks for the great shots y info
Thanks! I love looking into the details.