Latin America, Mexico, Vera Cruz, ca. early 20th century CE. A very strong example of a Moro Chino mask used in the dance of the Moros y Cristianos (Moors and Christians). The mask is carved from a single piece of wood with eye slits for the wearer, a straight protruding nose, rounded cheeks, slightly parted lips, and wonderfully incised marks to delineate the texture of his beard and coiffure. In addition, the visage is embellished with a mustache of real hair attached via a copper loop, added brown and white pigments, and most impressive, an intricately designed headdress of a cut copper band impressed with stylized motifs, with attached copper leaf appliques presenting delineated veining, and two flat roundels that flank a central hemispheric large roundel. The Moro Chino mask is intended to represent the angry Moor after being defeated. Moor and Christian masks are common throughout Veracruz, and are oftentimes used for patron saint feast days. Custom stand. Size: 5" W x 10" H (12.7 cm x 25.4 cm); 12.875" H (32.7 cm) on stand

Provenance: private Moore collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired thirty years ago

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#121962

Amazing patina from use and handling. Some losses to copper leaves, remaining leaves show wonderful russet and green patina. Expected surface wear with minor pigment losses, scuffs, and abraded areas as shown - all commensurate with age.