Turícuaro, Michoacan

9 inches, Carved wood with paint

In the dances of the Viejitos (and of the Curpites) a group of dancers wearing pink-faced male masks are led by Tata Keri and Maringuilla, who are said to represent Saint Joseph and the Virgin Mary. They dance shortly after Christmas.

This strongly carved mask was collected from the carver, Artensio Sombrero, by Dinah Gaston. The back demonstrates mild to moderate wear, and it was said to have been danced for 15 years at the time of collection.