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Monumental Mexican Carved Polychrome Mermaid Dance Mask, Folk Art Sculpture

About the Item

A magnificent life-size Mexican folk art hand carved and painted wood body dance mask, in the form of a mermaid, dating to the early 20th century, most likely originating in Guerrero, Mexico. Featuring a large nude female form, exquisitely detailed throughout, including intricately painted eyes, sculpted wavy hair and rich polychrome decorated scaled tail mounted with fish figure, having cutout for wearing around waist, moderately hollowed body reduces overall weight, and arms jointed at the shoulder allowing the arms to rotate and freely move when worn. Retaining later looped wires for hanging from the ceiling or wall. Great original antique / vintage condition with expected heavily distressed patina and chippy paint finish losses. All wear consistent with age and indicative of use. Provenance / Acquisition: From the collection of Mrs. Bettye Wellons, Austin, Texas. Acquired from highly reputable auction house Austin Auction Gallery, established in 1983, Austin, Texas. 2022 Texas Mansion Carved Antiques & Decor catalog. Overall dimensions: (approx) Raised on arms angled back with back head up: 50" long, 30" high 18" wide Raised on arms position: 52" long, 29" high, 17" wide Arms extended forward: 61" long, 27" high, 15" wide Arms extended back: 49"long, 26" high, 23" wide Weight: 12lbs Makes for a fascinating decorative object, historical sculpture, or one-of-a-kind statement piece, sure to add rich artistic depth, museum quality cultural interest, conversational intrigue, and old world Spanish Colonial heritage, as well as vibrant color, texture, sculptural form, and distinctive whimsical style to any space!
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 30 in (76.2 cm)Width: 52 in (132.08 cm)Depth: 18 in (45.72 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1920
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading. Good original antique / vintage condition with expected heavily distressed patina and chippy paint finish losses. Wear consistent with age, handling and use. Typical losses and flaws inherent with folk art.
  • Seller Location:
    Forney, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5977231102622
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