Negrito Mask

Guerrero, Mexico

7 ½ Inches, painted wood

This old, well-used mask has been repainted many times and now has a wonderful patina. What makes it so special is the large numeral "5" that has been carved into the right cheek. My guess is that it was used for the dance of the Negros... or perhaps the dance of the Pescados... or maybe even the Tlacololeros.  Please tell me your opinion, or if you know why the number is there.

Here is the most specific opinion I have received. "This mask is a Chareo, it is NOT a negrito, pescador or tlacololero. These mask are from near Tierra Colorado, Guerrero. All the Chareos have aluminum foil below or above the eyeholes, actually those are suppose to be the eyes. They also often have a numbered cheek. There are 7 pairs of masks of different colors-- they are not necessary black, they can be any color."

SOLD