Central America, Guatemala, ca. early 20th century. A wonderful trio of hand-carved and hand-painted wooden dance masks, perhaps representing characters from the Dance of the Conquest. Each visage presents with skillfully delineated facial features, mustaches (one with a goatee as well), and thick coiffures. All have openwork eyes for the wearer to see surrounded by long eyelashes which are traditional to the culture. One that has maroon-colored skin displays a pair of perched green birds with red breasts and white details flanking its forehead. Together they make a fabulous ensemble! Size of largest: 7" W x 8.75" H (17.8 cm x 22.2 cm)

Provenance: private Los Angeles County, California, USA collection, acquired by descent from the owner's father, acquired from 1950 to 1990

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#136053

Pink mask with beard has stable fissure with repair/adhesive over break line on verso of beard and chin. Pink mask with no beard has stable fissure to base and verso of chin. Nose of maroon mask possibly repaired. Expected surface wear to all with light nicks and abrasions throughout. Otherwise, all very nice with excellent remaining pigments and lovely patina.