1950s, Ethnographic, Danced, Ecuadorian (Ecuador) Wooden Dog Mask w/Real Teeth!

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About the Item

Fantastic, used, ethnographic, dog mask - circa 1950s or earlier. An exceedingly rare,early, heavily danced, wooden mask hailing from Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador. (i.e. the Central Highlands) Some masks 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. Many of the masks represent animals, including monkeys, wolves, tigers, or 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. Some carvers produce masks 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 (I love how the pinks and blues coalesce). Patina at the inside-chin area... that attest to the piece's long history of dance. Has at least one remaining canine tooth that was from a real animal; several others are now absent. If you know anything about Ecuadorian Masks.. you know that authentic, used, pieces are exceptionally hard to find. The round-cut-out-pupils circled in blue are further attestations of the origins of this piece. Old, metal-band-repair within the inner ear flap on the ear that is otherwise broken into segments. Three holes for twine including one at the top forehead area. Retrofitted with steel wire with a plastic coating to ensure preservation and longevity. This is a museum-quality piece that commands attention and respect. The piece has such a strong presence in-person, that you suddenly think you're too close and you may get some steamy hot breath in your face if you don't take a step back. 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. Large and 3-Dimensional: Height: 10 in. (25.4 cm) Width: 9 in. (22.86 cm) Depth: 10 in. (25.4 cm).

Dimensions:
Height: 10 in (25.4 cm)Width: 10 in (25.4 cm)Depth: 9 in (22.86 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Other,Hand-Carved
Place of Origin:
Ecuador
Period:
Mid-20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1950
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Brunswick, ME
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU6081226483882