Moth Taxidermy wall mount - Farfalla - 60 cm - 40 cm - 20 cm - 1

Mexico, state of Guerrero.

Great Mexican Mask Mariposa – Guerrero –
Carved and polychrome wood –
20th century

Fascinating and scenographic Mexican animal-mask depicting a Mariposa (butterfly), linked to the tradition of popular masks from the state of Guerrero, Mexico.

The work is made of wood entirely carved and hand-painted. The composition is particularly elaborate: a highly stylized human face occupies the central part and is integrated into the body of the insect, characterized by large wings, legs and numerous curved appendages.

The polychromy has a notable impact, in ochre, cream, black and blue tones, as well as the geometric decorations painted on the wings. The reverse side work also allows a clear observation of the manual carving, the wooden structure and the construction of the different parts.

The subject of the anthropomorphic butterfly finds support in the tradition of the Mexican Mariposa masks, particularly documented in the Guerrero area.

The object shows a strong patina and numerous signs of age, which emphasize its character: wear and losses of the polychromy, abrasions, cracks, small missing pieces, irregular wood and holes attributable to old woodworm activity. The state of conservation is extensively documented by photographs.
During purchase there will be two pieces included for restoration.
(Structure to be reinforced)

Provenance: Mexico
Cultural area: Guerrero
Subject: Mariposa / anthropomorphic butterfly
Material: carved and polychrome wood
Technique: carving and hand painting
Period: 20th century
Conditions: fair, with evident signs of wear, patina and losses due to time.

An object of great visual impact, particularly interesting for collectors of masks, Mexican folk art, ethnographic art and ritual and decorative objects of Latin America.

The photographs are an integral part of the description and show in detail the conservation state of the work.