The following item belongs to the range of “Antique and Rare Items of the Casa de Artes’ Treasures Series”. This item can only be purchased online using PAYPAL or a US Dollar Check sent to our P.O. Box address in Florida, USA. For buying instructions please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. ---- Rare Monkey mask with three holes made for the dancer to see; normally only two viewing holes are made in masks. This piece has a prominent snout decorated with white nose and a large red mouth with big red lips that gives the mask a precious look. The big blue glass eyes are highlighted with a red and white frame; high relieve eyebrows and of course, the rare three viewing holes. Notice the scratches on paint caused during the “Bailes Tradicionales”. Monkeys are present in almost every Ceremonial Dance; they act as buffoons, they give the relief to the audience during the long lasting ceremonies; and they have the important roll of collecting food, liquor or money for the Religious Brotherhood that sponsors the event. The age of the mask can be determined by the many different layers of paint and the incredible backside patina that tells the many adventures that the mask has overcome.
Age: Approximately carved in the early 1900’s.
Ethnic Group: Kekchí
Origin: Cobán, Alta Verapaz
Materials: Wood
Use: Deer Dance, Baile Convite
Technique: Hand carved at a Morería
Size: Approximately 3.5” x 6.5” x 8”