Candle Holder

This candle holder from Mexico is used during Day of the Dead.  Candle holders like this intricately and brightly painted figurative piece were first developed in Izúcar de Matamoros, Puebla, as votive offerings. The skull imagery is typical of objects associated with the celebration.  Candles are an important element of the ofrenda, or offering, set up to honor deceased relatives and ancestors.  Often, four candles are placed on the top level of the altar signifying the four cardinal directions.  One candle burns for each deceased family member is located elsewhere on the ofrenda.  One extra candle is included to ensure that no one will be forgotten.  The light from these candles illuminates the way for the returning spirits of the deceased.