Latin America, Mexico, probably Guerrero State, ca. early 20th century CE. Here we have a magnificent mask, probably from the Guerrero region, in the form of a bold human visage with wide open, generously lashed and browed eyes (eye slits as well for the wearer), abundant wavy hair, and a grand mustache, representing a Moor or quite possibly Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador who led to the fall of the Aztec Empire. Beneath the human mouth is a grey bat-like animal, his grey body blending with the Moor or Cortes' face. In Mexico, the strong bonds between human beings and animals really comes through in visual culture, particularly in masks like this example. According to Donald Cordry, in his "Mexican Masks" "‘In ancient Mexico the idea of the mystic unity of man and animals was widespread" and practiced all the way back to the era of the Olmecs! Size: 9.75" W x 15" H (24.8 cm x 38.1 cm)

Provenance: Ex- Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos, Chicago, IL acquired before 1970.

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#113250

Expected surface wear with paint losses, nicks, and age cracks as shown.