Deer Mask

Santa Cruz, Alta Verapaz

12 inches, painted wood, deer horns, metal bells

Here is a genuine deer mask from the Baile de los Venados. They are worn on top of the head instead of covering the face and are an easily-recognized Guatemalan animal mask. Carved in the 1970’s, probably at a Moreria. Appears to have several coats of paint

The deer dance is common in most parts of Guatemala. Though it has been Christianized to various degrees, it derives from an ancient Mayan hunting ceremony. The cast of characters includes an old man, 4 hunters, 2 dogs, 4 deer, a tiger, a lion, and 2 monkeys. Guatemalans also do other variations of animal-themed dances.

$350