“Guardian’s Roar” – Beaded Jaguar Head

Fierce and ceremonial, Guardian’s Roar by Juan De La Cruz is a stunning Huichol beaded jaguar head that radiates power and precision. With its open mouth frozen mid-snarl and eyes wide with alert intensity, this sculpture captures the jaguar not just as a symbol — but as a spirit alive in the moment. Every inch is covered with hand-placed glass beads, arranged in circular mandala-like patterns in deep browns, muted golds, ivory, and soft reds. These sacred designs represent protection, ancestral vision, and the cosmic balance between the natural and spiritual worlds. The inside of the mouth — including the tongue and teeth — is just as detailed, with rich contrasting beadwork that amplifies the energy of the piece. Mounted on a carved wooden form and created with traditional beeswax adhesive, this work is more than folk art — it’s a contemporary ceremonial object. Fierce, hypnotic, and unforgettable.