Lot 100C
Latin America, Guatemala or Mexico, ca. 19th century or early 20th century CE. A well-carved wood mask probably depicting the Spanish conquistador Cortes - a lively yet traditional depiction, replete with Cortes' abundant jet black hair, pink complexion to indicate his European status/heritage, as well as a thick mustache and beard. In this example the mask maker has emphasized the coiffure with countless carved marks to suggest the hairdo's wavy quality. Custom stand. Size: 6.25" W x 6.75" H (15.9 cm x 17.1 cm); 9.75" H (24.8 cm) on stand
The indigenous of Mexico and Guatemala have created masks for centuries. These theatrical visages have been used in dances, rituals, fertility rites, as well as agricultural and religious ceremonies. Masks are believed to transform the wearer so that he/she may assume the role of another human being, an animal, deity, ancestor, child, angel, devil, or historical figure, as we see in this example. While this particular mask depicts a Spaniard, the tradition of mask making originated well before the arrival of the Spanish. Of course, once the Spaniards came to the New World, they greatly influenced the various native mask making traditions, as priests encouraged the indigenous to create masks for Catholic celebrations and feast days honoring various saints and holy figures. Just as popular was the Dance of Christians and Moors, a favorite account of the Christians defeating the Moors. The Dance of the Conquest also became very popular in Guatemala with performers playing the roles of Hernan Cortes, Don Pedro Portocarrero, Pedro de Alvarado, and La Malinche.
Provenance: private Moore collection, Denver, Colorado USA, acquired thirty years ago
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#121970
- Condition: Minor surface wear with faint areas of pigment loss, but overall excellent and very well preserved.
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