Mexican mask collectors know that tigre is what they call a jaguar. Though now extinct, they were once the apex predator in that part of the world. Yellow masks with black dots and sharp teeth are featured in many different dances all around Mexico. Village carvers sell their products to local dancers as well as tourists (who are willing to pay more). The good news for collectors is that the tourists often get the prettier, more creative versions. Mexico is indeed a very artistic culture. Save Save

Q:  I just have a quick question about mask storage. I have a small collection of African and Indonesian masks and was wondering about the best way to store them for long term preservation. Do you have any suggestions? Hang them? Put them in boxes? I’d appreciate your feedback.  Annabelle, 1027 A:  My choice would be to hang them on the wall, especially if the air in your home is fairly well regulated. This way they are easy to inspect and occasionally dust. Best of all, you’ll love the way lots of masks hanging close together can have a decorative effect. Here’s what I did with part of my Mexican…

  Q:  My husband purchased these two Mexican masks, a male and female, online.  They did not come with any information other then an old label on the back of the female mask stating Puebla.  They seem to be quite old, worn thru in one area on a cheek, and with old repairs to splits.  Can you help with information?  Kim, 1026 A:  This is an unusual pair… both the blue color and underneath-the-eye sight holes are uncommon. But they were made by the same carver somewhere in the Sierra de Puebla Mountains. Definitely old and used. Personally, I love the way they look together. You  should purchase a book…