The Xolo Dogs of Tenochtitlan

3 Xoloitzcuintli dogs in gold leaf, magenta cyan blue. In the background is a sunset of purple and pink and a hint of Indian yellow. The dogs have patterns that are vaguely floral.

Original Art by Mark Sarmel

In ancient times the Xoloitzcuintli dog (Xolo dogs for short) were venerated by Mesoamerican peoples and were seen as protectors and guides for those entering the underworld. Here they are imagined as guardians of the city and its people. The gold, crystal blue and magenta patterns on their coats are indicative of a very distinctive breed of Xolos that were known for the bravery and loyalty.

This 11″x17″ painting was made with acrylic paint, gold leaf and black India ink on watercolor paper.

$200 $200

OR pay in 12 interest free installments, available in checkout.

Out of stock

Every Day Original Release Schedule:

10:30am EST – New original art posted every day
11am EST – Mailing list gets exclusive access email
12pm EST – Exclusive access buy button activates
12:30pm EST – Public sale opens

Join Our Exclusive Access Mailing List:

About the Artist

Mark Sarmel

As an artist Mark works under the name Mark Sarmel. Mark’s work often deals with diverse people and cultures. By mixing mythologies from numerous cultures and re-presenting them in a hybrid form he seeks to reflect the multicultural world he sees around him. This imaginary world is filled with characters that are at first atypical, but ultimately analogous to the real world. He seeks to present these characters in heroic portraits that act as spirit guides for the viewer.