Folk Art Mexican Mask (1046FHE)

Description

This Mexican folk art mask is a decorative version of a traditional dance mask representing a devil (el diablo) or a horned animal like a goat (chivo). The carved wood has a beige base  with several red-tipped conical spikes or horns on the forehead, cheeks, and chin. Its vibrant appearance is enhanced with colorful, wavy lines in red, green, and yellow paint. A sense of joy is a reflection of the half- closed arched eyes with long black painted eyelashes and a smiling red mouth.

Old masks like this are traditionally used in festivals, celebrations and dances in Mexico, particularly around Carnival or Christmastime. The style of this mask’s style, with several small horns and vibrant lines of color is a modern interpretation inspired by traditional themes and represents a generic, celebratory “horned beast” or “devil” figure.