San Simón figurine

San Simón, also known as Maximón, is a popular saint with widespread devotion in Chiapas and Guatemala. Although he is not recognised by the Catholic Church, his cult stems from the syncretism between Christianity and pre-Hispanic religions. He is particularly popular with those who live on the margins of society or outside the law.

In Mayan cosmology, he is the saint to invoke for unorthodox favours, such as wealth, women, or directly wishing evil on an enemy. As a saint of ambiguous morals and vices, the faithful offer him tobacco and alcohol to cheer him up and make him happy.

The small size of this figure makes it ideal for wearing as an amulet or placing on a home altar.