Description:

Latin America, Mexico, Guerrero, ca. early 20th century CE. An evocative brass repousse mask depicting a bearded man reminiscent of those once made by the Mixtec people of the region. The vibrant vizard features a lively face with a flowing beard, high cheek bones, bulging eyes with eye holes beneath, and an open mouth with prominent front teeth. The verso additionally displays a chin rest and cloth covering, likely for greater comfort of the wearer. Sometimes called "barbones" or "bearded old men," masks of this type have been said to serve varying functions such as being used in the "rain-petitioning dance," serving as Carnival masks, representing the god Tlaloc, depicting a European man, and being used to chase Spaniards out of their pueblos in the mountains of Guerrero. Size: 11.4" W x 16.8" H (29 cm x 42.7 cm)

Provenance: private Constance McCormick Fearing estate, Montecito, California, USA, acquired before 2004

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#181072

  • Condition: Some light bending, as well as nicks and abrasions to mask. Otherwise, intact and excellent with great preservation of pigment and rich patina throughout. Suspension wire on verso for display.

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September 1, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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