A Pre Columbian Olmec hand carved from green Jade face mask. The mask is adorned with naturalistic human features with an open mouth, plump lips, large hand carved natural stone eyes. This stone mask could have been worn by an elite individual. Since Jade was considered more valuable than gold or other precious metals, it is likely that this mask would have been used during ritual ceremonies or possibly as a death mask to accompany the body of a deceased person who wielded spiritual and political power. The Olmec culture, arising near the Gulf of Mexico and north of the Yucatan Peninsula, is often seen as the Mother Civilization of Mesoamerica. Ancient Pre Columbian Hand Carved Natural Stones Masks, Traditional Wares, Folk Art Collectibles.

Dimensions: H 2 1/2 in. All measurements are approximate.