Late 19th Century Hand-Carved Folk Mask This hand-carved mask features a long hooked nose, painted moustache and beard, green eyes, and unusually constructed horns wrapped in tightly layered plant fiber / paper. During the Carnival celebrations of Mexico, masked performers transform into devils, spirits, conquistadors, animals, and comic characters. These masks blur the line between demon and performer, combining exaggerated European facial features with playful theatrical styling. It was created for seasonal processions, Carnival celebrations, and traditional dance performances across central and southern Mexico.
Details
Origin: Mexico
Date: Late 19th century (c. 1890–1920)
Material: Hand-carved wood with polychrome paint; wrapped fiber/paper horns over an armature
Dimensions: From horns: appx. 8.5 inches tall, 10 inches wide
Condition: Honest antique condition with moderate wear consistent with age and handling. Please examine all photographs carefully.
