EARLY Antique Guatemala Hand Carved Wood Spanish Conquistador Mask GLASS EYES For Sale

EARLY Antique Guatemala Hand Carved Wood Spanish Conquistador Mask GLASS EYES

Genuine circa 1800s, an extremely early example of a Conquistador mask, probably Pedro De Alvarado

Size approx. 8" long x 6" wide x 3.5" deep

A genuine antique. The hand carving and detailing on this mask is superb: Wonderful carved patterning in the hair and beard, which is painted with a gold gilt paint for a 'blonde hair' effect.

Glass eyes are fabulous- the antique/early 1800s masks did not use glass eyeballs, but instead used pieces of thin curved glass which was reverse painted for a very realistic look. The eyes on this mask are grey-blue, which further signifies a European.

This mask features 2 gold painted front teeth, which were also reserved in design for a Pedro De Alvarado mask.

Incredibly expressive and delicate features, right down to his detailed nose and ears.

This mask was made by a superb Artisan- they have covered the skin with a thin layer of plaster to make it look more like real flesh. The plaster was then coated with oil and enamel paint, then given rosy cheeks. This step is almost unheard of in modern times but was done when the mask was going to be used in actual village dance ceremonies- I believe this was quite an important mask.

This mask would have been featured as a central figure in a Dance Of The Conquest dance, most likely in Guatemala [but was done throughout the area]

This mask is not a lesser, formulaic tourist piece easily available and obtained- it's quite special & unique. There is a real humanity and charming spirit to the facial features.

The inner surface of this mask is, although carved, extremely smooth and with a patina due to wear and usage over many generations of ceremonial use. There are small woodworm holes throughout the wood which can be seen from the back- definitely dating this mask to the EARLY 1800s. It is very lightweight.

Round hole on each side of mask at very top edges with a metal wire threaded through the back for display- ready to hang. There are also 3 small holes in his beard which were deliberately made for a now unknown use, perhaps to steady the mask when worn. His mouth has a carved openeing, and each of his eyebrows is also carved open to allow a wearer to see.

See all pics & use zoom. Magnificent, Art Gallery quality. Highly collectible and unique.

Very Good antique condition, no flaws damage cracks or repair to mask other than a fine crack line though the glass on each eye. Almost impossible to notice unless looking up close, and the glass is completely stable and secure. Very minor, normal for age. Light/normal wear for age and use- this piece was worn as a ceremonial piece [smooth surface of wood inside] and has some chips of the surface paint at the tip of his nose and a small plaster chip above his right eye.

Plaster and paint surfaces are stable and patinated surface finish greatly adds to the visual appeal and authenticity of the piece. Glossy, smooth, richly colored, unfaded.

I have owned this mask for about 40 years and feel it's time to pass him along to another person to be treasured and appreciated. He is by far and away the best Conquistador mask I've come across.

A beautiful piece of Art -stunning for a collector.

Ships fully insured & w tracking provided

As always, my items are packed with EXTRA bubble wrap and extreme care to insure a safearrival.

Please check my other listings for more FABULOUS VINTAGE collectibles, glass, china, tea sets and cups, and unique treasures. I add several new listings per week.

Please note the following, dear fellow shopping enthusiasts:

I strive to give you the best service possible. I am not a dealer or professional, just a lifelong collector and enthusiast. I only list items that I think are unique and of good quality. I represent my items as accurately and clearly as I can, and believe it is always better for you to have too much information than not enough! Please ask any questions before bidding, I will happily respond.

Remember, these are vintage items and will have reasonable signs of age and wear which only adds to their personality, appeal and "funky vintage-ness". They are not in their original boxes unless noted. I do not excessively clean items or remove age patina, as I want to leave that option for the buyer.

I will promptly ship your item within1 business day and post great positive feedback for you once payment is received.

Go Green! I try to re-use clean, almost-new shipping boxes when possible.

I will gladly combine shipping on multiple items for you.

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