This is a carved mask that is mounted on a metal base. The mask is painted to resemble a jaguar. It is from the latter part of the 19th century in Guerrero, Mexico. Very rare mask. Dimensions: 12"H with base, mask measures 9" x 7" x 3.5". Traditionally, the Spanish used masks in their own culture and found them to be a useful tool for converting the peoples of the Americas to Catholicism. Masks are worn to honor the community¥s patron saint, used in the Christian Morality plays, Carnival, Easter, Corpus Christi and Day of the Dead. Combat dances such as the Moors and the Christians and the Dance of the Conquest were often incorporated into these same festivals. In many of the dances, the characters of death and the devil are present and depicted wearing an infinite variety of creative masks and costumes. Masquerading also can be satirical or comedic with commentary on daily life and its complications thus providing entertainment and serving the needs of the local community.

very good condition