This is Maximo or Maximon. We attended a ceremony for a short time very similar looking to this. It was at the market village that we went to on Lake Atitlan. Our guide took us on a very circuitous route through the village side streets, narrow walkways between the villagers homes. In fact this was set up in a residence. It is a great honor to have this in your home. I believe is was a concession made to the people who follow this old way. But the ceremony moves on a regular basis. I believe this figure was or possibly still is also called "Holy Boy", depending where on Lake Atitlan the ceremony is held.

The figure or mannequin in past was religious statues that had been dressed in this manor. In more remote areas it might be a collection of "sacred sticks". But the general purpose for the ceremony is for intercession for the people or particular persons. Maximo is regularly, during the ceremony give tobacco and alcohol. There are Shamans on both side of him tending to him. In front of him and the candles is an intercessor continually chanting for those brought for healing.

That day we were there, one particular prayer was being done for some one's brother. Though not being able to understand a word, the power and strength of the intercession could be felt. They let us see this so that there would be money given that they might continue to help the people. I also got the feeling the we were intruding on a very ancient and sacred ceremony. Having read later of the depth of layers of the Mayan belief, I know that to be true. In time ago only very highly initiated members of the village would present for some of these ceremonies and much "liturgy" would be used to "feed the Gods" so the people might live.