colorful masks

Tlaloc is the god of rain in a number of Mesoamerican cultures, beginning with the vast city of Teotihuacan where he was also venerated as a fertility god. Deity of earthly waters and fertility, Tlaloc was believed to be responsible for drought as well as for floods in ancient Teotihuacan. This belief spread throughout Mexico, reaching the Maya who referred to him as Chaac, and from there to Central American cultures. Morneo depicts his own interpretation of the pre-Hispanic rain god in bright colors. The Mexican artisan works in papier-maché, crafting and painting the signature mask by hand.

Depicted with a blue face and a majestic, colorful headdress, the face of the Mayan god of death, Ah Puch is depicted in this archaeologically-inspired mask from Mexico. The Angel Ceron Artisan Association presents this mask, which is handcrafted from ceramic by local artisans.

This awe-inspiring wall mask is a tribute to the revered jaguar god central to major Mesoamerican civilizations. Mexican artisan Morneo expertly handcrafts it from papier mache and intricately paints it with alluring motifs and vivid colors that evoke the vibrant folk art style of alebrijes. Preserving its allure and enhancing its luminous luster, layers of protective lacquer enshroud this masterpiece. Radiate an aura of cultural significance and leave an enduring impression as you adorn your surroundings with this matchless creation, a testament to time-honored traditions and creative brilliance.

This expertly hand-carved pinewood mask by Jose Canil Ramos of Guatemala brilliantly reflects its Mayan roots. The carved face is adorned with a colorful plume to depict the ornamentation of the upper echelon of Mayan society. The mask is made with an elaborate method to create a unique masterpiece that will stand out on any wall.Of his inspiration, the artisan says, "I made this mask thinking of the artistic beauty of Mayan plumes. Besides being important for denoting social class or hierarchy, they were pieces of art."