1960s, Ethnographic, Danced, Ecuadorian (Ecuador) Wooden Lion Mask withPatina

Fantastic, used, ethnographic, lion mask - circa 1960s or earlier. An exceedingly rare, early, heavily danced, wooden mask hailing from Latacunga, Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador. Are made in small workshops, like the one operated by the Huacho family in Saquisilí, while others are carved by farmers during their spare time. Represent animals, including monkeys, wolves, tigers, and fierce dogs.

The large heads and faces are carved from one piece of wood. Each dancer within a group wears a different animal masquerade while they all rowdily proceed through the fiesta as if they were a pack of dangerous beasts. Portraying clowns or men and women with European or African features.

Bi-annually in the city of Latacunga, Ecuador, at the foot of the Cotopaxi Volcano, a celebration takes place called'La Fiesta de la Mama Negra'. The celebration, a syncretism of: Andean, Aymara, Pagan and Catholic ideology and religious beliefs. Shortly after the Spanish colonized Ecuador the Cotopaxi Volcano erupted violently and when the people of Latacunga begged the Virgin of Mercy;She answered their prayers and spared their city. In light of this miracle a festival was been held in Latacunga ever since in her honor. This was hand carved and shaped from a cedar block by a master Ecuadorian carver.

Multiple layers of paint from years of use and touch-ups. Deep, thick, Patina at the inside-chin and nose areas... That attest to the piece's long history of dance. Missing the original canine teeth that were made of real animal teeth; A fragment of one remains.

This further attests to the piece not being a tourist item, but rather a beloved, time-consuming, authentic piece. If you know anything about Ecuadorian Masks.. You know that authentic, used, pieces are exceptionally hard to find. Provenance: From Olga Fisch's collection gathered in the late 1970s.

This is a museum-quality piece that commands attention and respect. Long, natural fiber, twine, depicting the lion's mane.

Aged leather near the ears (ears are intact underneath). Leather is no longer flexible w/age.

Made, by a skilled carver that made the mask light, strong, and ergonomically correct and comfortable to wear inside. Deeply recessed nose, soft rounded edges of the back of the mask, perfect placement of the eyes to view out, breathable nostrils and mouth to give the performer plenty of access to fresh air. This piece is as artistically and aesthetically pleasing as it is culturally significant. The item "1960s, Ethnographic, Danced, Ecuadorian (Ecuador) Wooden Lion Mask withPatina" is in sale since Saturday, November 12, 2016. This item is in the category "Collectibles\Cultures & Ethnicities\Latin American\Other Latin Am. The seller is "cosmic_goods" and is located in Freeport, Maine. This item can be shipped worldwide.

Handmade: Yes
Modified Item: No
Country/Region of Manufacture: Ecuador
Culture: Latin American
Provenance: Ownership History Not Available