Description
This mask immediately says that one is in the presence of a work of art. As in all our Huichol beaded art, the sacred symbols and use of color are breathtaking. The delicately carved wooden mask is very contoured and lifelike, not flat. The tiny chaquira, or seed beads, are applied by coating the surface of the wooden carving with a beeswax mixture called campeche. The beads are then applied one by one using a needle. The vision of the artist comes to life as the beads are applied. The beading is perfect with every bead in place. This can easily be seen by hovering over each image where it will expand, showing the incredible detail of this art. Because smaller size 15 beads are used instead of the more available larger size 11, greater skill and artistry is required. The quality of the beading is unsurpassed!
The sacred symbols used in this piece are deer, scorpion, candle and peyote; respectively symbolizing the messengers of the gods, protector of the peyote, freedom and success in life. Two large green and gold peyote lie either side of the chin. Two deer grace each each cheek and a yellow scorpion lies on the nose. A ceremonial candle can be seen on the underside of the chin. Gold and white lines of beads form upward strokes above the closed meditative eyes. It is framed with a border of several rows of beads all the way around.
The mask is 7 inches tall and 4.4 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep.
Seen in real life this mask comes to life and is imbued with the Huichol connection to the spirit world.
SEE THE HUICHOL ART PAGE FOR AN IN-DEPTH EXPLANATION OF THESE PARTICULAR HUICHOL INDIANS AND THEIR ART.
For international shipping, ask for a quote through the contact page.
Do not place this art in hot direct sunlight. This may soften the beeswax. Otherwise, with gently handling, this art will stay in perfect shape.
Follow Latin American Art Gallery