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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Art of Mexico : Stone Pectoral Mask
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Stone Pectoral Mask - PF.4647
Origin: Mexico
Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
3" (7.6cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Stone
$9,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
For many cultures around the world, (ancient and
modern), the mask serves as a medium between
physical reality and the realm of spirits. The
person who wears a mask, either on their face or
hanging around the neck, can be in contact with
ancestors or other spirits, and the mask serves
to protect the wearer. During rituals, masks were
seen as the 'conduit' for spirits to make
themselves manifest. This lovely mask is
intended to the wearer as an ornament around
the neck or chest, evidenced by the double holes
on both sides. The near perfect holes for eyes
gives it a penetrating expression, enhanced by
the slightly open mouth. Since religious
ceremonies were the time when masks were
'animated' by spirits, a sense of possession or
intoxication would have followed while priests
went into trance. A trance-like state is clearly
seen on this mask, and suggests a priest may
have worn it during a ceremony where
supernatural powers were invoked. The natural
coloration of the stone, with its rich amber and
light tan striated by black veins, lends greater
mystery; and at the same time, adds a human
quality as well.
- (PF.4647)
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