Bull Devil Mask

This large ceremonial dance mask from Guanajuato represents a 'bull devil' with hand painted bull horns, leather ears and a colorful snake coiled around the eyes. The bull devil plays an important role in one of Mexico's most popular ceremonial dances, the Pastorela, a dance drama performed ubiquitously in the days leading up to Christmas. For those unfamiliar, the Pastorela dance is a reenactment of biblical passages and the evocative Christmas story of the Wise Men and the star of Bethlehem suspended over the stable where Christ was born. In order to reach His birthplace the shepherds must confront the devil who will do everything in his power to divert and dissuade them from completing their mission. Guanajuato. Circa 1940's / 1950's.

Dimensions: 19 inches high. Horn spread is 15 inches. 

** Please note: smaller coyote mask is shown for scale only. 

Condition notes: in excellent condition. Stable paint. No lose or moving parts.

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