South America

Peruvian Diablo mask

Q:  I believe this devil mask is from Brazil.  I inherited my friends’ home, and found this and two other masks; my friends had lived in Brazil about 20-30 years ago.  The mask is approximately 15” tall and appears to be papier-mâché, though I’m not sure (one of the horns is soft).  It looks like some images I’ve seen online of the Carnaval de Oruro.  Can you tell me more about it and approximate worth?  Carol, 1389

A:  Not Brazil, but over their western border in Peru. Oruro is in Bolivia where the masks are similar in style. It has not been used. Large and very traditional, I think most collectors would like it. They are often made of clay and other molded materials. You can judge its approximate worth by the following letter grade.  B+

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