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  • Caribbean

    Masks of the World Presents: The Authentic Boruca Collection!

    September 22, 2023 / No Comments

    Venture into the heart of the Costa Rica rainforest with us as we unveil a treasure trove of history and artistry. For the first time, we’re thrilled to present a collection of 19 authentic danced Boruca diablito masks. These aren’t just any masks; they are a testament to the rich history and revival of the Boruca mask-carving tradition. 🌳 A Revival from the Brink 🌳 In the 1970s and 80s, the art of Boruca mask carving was nearly lost. But, thanks to the indomitable spirit of Ismael Gonzalez, this ancient craft was reborn, infusing life and passion back into the Boruca community. The masks in our collection are a reflection…

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    Troy

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    The Vejigantes steal the show in Ponce, PR.

    March 26, 2017

    Haitian masks are not expensive

    February 18, 2018

    Puerto Rican art mask

    April 13, 2018
  • Misc

    Lost in Translation: Why Your African Mask Isn’t Phoning Home

    August 31, 2023 / No Comments

    Greetings, fellow mask enthusiasts! Ever stared long enough at an African mask that you thought E.T. was peeping right back at you? Or perhaps you’ve stood, head tilted, in front of an elaborate Dogon mask, waiting for a little green man to pop out and say, “Take me to your leader!” No? Just me? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a whimsical journey through the “otherworldly” realm of masks that might just have you questioning your next sci-fi binge-watch. 1. Hollywood vs. History: Let’s face it; we’ve all been conditioned by movies, TV shows, and that one overly imaginative uncle, to picture aliens in a certain way.…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Masks as art

    January 3, 2015

    Fall forward tomorrow

    March 7, 2015

    Steampunk mask by Tom Banwell

    August 30, 2015
  • Africa,  Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Why You Probably Shouldn’t Buy That African Mask (But We Know You Will Anyway)

    August 15, 2023 / No Comments

    Oh, so you’ve caught the exotic decor bug, have you? Before you splurge on that “authentic” African mask to add a dash of je ne sais quoi to your living room, let’s talk about the few (or many) reasons why that might not be your best idea. 1. The Historical Baggage First off, let’s be clear: African masks aren’t just fancy wall decorations. Each mask carries the weight of history, culture, and ritual significance. By buying one without understanding its origins, you’re essentially telling your guests, “I have a deep appreciation for beautiful things I know nothing about. 2. Reproduction Galore! Authenticity? More like au-thent-ish. Thanks to the global demand…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Ville or Yombe from the DRC

    February 25, 2018

    Kota reliquary guardian figure

    May 15, 2019

    African Mystery

    October 26, 2020
  • Guatemala

    The Aberdeenshire Find: A Guatemalan Gem in the UK!

    August 10, 2023 / No Comments

    In Aberdeenshire, UK, Gerard’s father made an unexpected discovery during a routine visit to a local charity shop. Amidst the typical assortment of items, a distinctively carved mask caught his attention. This wasn’t just any decorative piece; it was a vibrant mask with the detailed features of a jaguar. Such a mask, rich in detail and craftsmanship, seemed out of context in a British charity shop setting. Upon closer inspection, and with a dash of detective work, it became clear: this was a traditional Guatemalan jaguar mask. Carved from wood and painted in the characteristic colors of the region, this mask was miles (or should we say, continents) away from…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Very old Guatemalan mask

    May 4, 2016

    Repro of Guatemalan Jaguar mask

    August 8, 2016

    The Mexican Guatemalan mask

    May 1, 2018
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  Travel

    Traditional vs. Authentic Masks: Understanding the Nuance

    August 8, 2023 / No Comments

    In the world of mask collecting, words matter. Two terms that often get used interchangeably, but carry distinct meanings, are “traditional” and “authentic.” While both terms evoke a sense of cultural significance and historical depth, they represent different facets of a mask’s story. Let’s dive into the nuances that set them apart. Traditional Masks: A Cultural Reflection When we talk about “traditional” masks, we’re referring to masks that are deeply rooted in the culture of a particular region or community. These masks: Are crafted by local artisans, often using techniques passed down through generations. Represent characters, myths, or stories indigenous to that culture. May be used in local festivals, dances,…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023

    Why You Probably Shouldn’t Buy That African Mask (But We Know You Will Anyway)

    August 15, 2023

    Saving Face: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Mask Collection

    July 19, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  Mexico

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023 / No Comments

    Greetings, mask fans! Today, we’re embarking on a journey that’s going to shake up your a little bit. Now, we are sorry for the inconvenience but that Mexican mask that you love so much could be fake! Oh, was that too fast? ok picture this: You’ve got this beautiful Mexican mask hanging on your wall. You love it. You’ve told all your friends about it. You’ve spun tales of its ancient origins, of indigenous people dancing under the sun, the mask’s vibrant colors reflecting the fiery spirit of the celebration. You’ve imagined it surviving fires, enduring battles for independence, and witnessing centuries of history. Well, brace yourselves, because we’re about…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023

    Traditional vs. Authentic Masks: Understanding the Nuance

    August 8, 2023
  • Mexico

    The Devil’s Craft: A Mexican Papier-mâché Masterpiece

    August 3, 2023 / No Comments

    Ask: I recently purchased this mask at an antique market. The seller informed me that it belonged to a mask collector whose estate was currently being sold. The mask was labeled as Mexican however the seller knew nothing else about it. I purchased this mask as well as one other for $125. The mask appears to be Papier-mâché.   This mask design looks somewhat like the Diablo masks from Nahua people of Temalucatzingo, Guerrero but since it’s Papier-mâché, I’m thinking maybe it’s from Mexico City since there quite a lot of papier-mâché crafts made there.  I’ve also seen papier-mâché Diablo masks from Oaxaca and the Cora people, of Nayarit use…

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    Troy

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    The unappreciated Mexican decorative

    May 23, 2016

    Mexican decorative

    August 30, 2015

    Maranquilla mask for Carnaval

    March 9, 2018
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023 / No Comments

    Hello fellow mask enthusiasts! Today, we’re delving into a fascinating topic that’s sure to make you rethink everything you thought you knew about mask collecting – artificial aging. And to add an extra layer of intrigue, we’re exploring this concept through the lens of the vibrant and lively masks of Guatemala. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting journey! Artificial aging, also known as artificial maturation or accelerated aging, is a process that simulates the long-term effects of aging on materials in a shorter period. It’s like a time machine for objects, fast-forwarding them into the future without the need for a DeLorean or a flux capacitor. This…

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    Paula Diaz

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    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023

    Saving Face: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Mask Collection

    July 19, 2023
  • Discover & Learn

    “Echoes of the Lost: The Kogui Masks’ Journey from Sierra Nevada to Berlin” V.1

    July 26, 2023 / No Comments

    Nine long years have passed since the time when a group of Kogui people, one of the world’s most isolated tribes, made an arduous journey to confront their past, locked away within the imposing walls of the Ethnological Museum of Berlin Dahlem. These delegates of a culture untouched by time stood before their sacred masks, the ‘Kágaba,’ entombed in concrete. A plea for their return has been echoing since then, reverberating through the empty museum halls. Handcrafted in the mysterious era of pre-Columbian times, the ‘Kágaba’ are not mere masks. They are the ancestral spirits of the Kogui people, integral to their sacred rituals and ceremonies. According to the Kogui’s…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Inside the Mind of a Collector: Why Do We Hoard, Anyway?

    July 12, 2023

    “Unmasking the ‘Evil’ Behind the Mask: A Exploration into our Fear of the Covered Face”

    July 17, 2023

    Where did it all begin?

    April 10, 2022
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023 / No Comments

    Hello, fellow mask enthusiasts! So, you’ve stumbled upon our mask collecting blog and you’re wondering, “Why on earth should I start collecting masks?” Well, let me enlighten you with the wise words of someone who’s asked themselves this question a thousand times. The Coolest Hobby: First off, you have to admit it’s a fantastic conversation starter. Imagine being at a party and someone asks about your hobbies. Do you really want to be the thirteenth person to mention jogging? Or would you rather casually say, “Oh, I collect exotic masks from around the world”? Trust me, you’ll have the room’s attention faster than you can say ‘Noh mask’! Face Your…

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    Paula Diaz

    You May Also Like

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023

    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023
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Quiz - Test Your Mask Knowledge

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Mystery Mask Value Code

A - high value*

B - collectible*

C - decorative art

D - low value

* A and B do not always imply higher dollar value. Most masks get a C or D, however I usually don't post them.

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