Negrito mask

Tarascan people, Michoacan

8 inches long, painted wood

In certain parts of Mexico African slaves were imported, and though they were just a small minority, blacks are depicted in many village dances. The Tarascan people feature Negritos in many village festivals, often with elaborate costumes and huge headdresses. This mask is typical of the region, where the black population has disappeared and the carvers portray them with European features.

$150