Dance mask - Mexico (No reserve price)

These are 2 hand-carved Mexican folk-art masks, of which the larger one is used for the traditional "Danza de los Viejitos" (the Dance of the Old Men). This dance originates from the Michoacán region in Mexico. The mask represents the face of a smiling old man, traditionally characterized by a pink or light skin tone, deep wrinkles, drawn blush on the cheeks, and a mouth with noticeably few or missing teeth. This type of mask is hand-carved from wood by local artisans and then painted with polychrome paint. The wear, the craquelure in the paint, and the weathered wood indicate that this is a vintage or antique piece that has actually been used during ceremonial dances. The Danza de los Viejitos is a pre-Hispanic dance originally performed to honor the gods and to pray for a good harvest. During the dance, young men wear these masks and traditional clothing, while they begin to walk like frail old men, then transition into a very energetic and rhythmic dance with a lot of stamping.
The smaller mask is used during ceremonial folk dances and festivals, such as the Baile de la Conquista (Dance of the Conquest) or local carnival celebrations. The mask depicts a human face, often a character such as a Spanish conquistador or a specific village figure (Patrón or Malinche).
Made from local wood and hand-painted.
The visible wear, craquelure in the paint, and the patinated look indicate authentic use in traditional dances. Height 17 cm.