Vintage Guatemalan Coyote Mask
Vintage Guatemalan Coyote Mask
★★★★★ Rated 4.9/5 by collectors
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Specifications
- Artist: AJ Canil Family
- Origin: Guatemala, Highlands Region
- Material: Hand-carved wood with polychrome paint
- Design: A zoomorphic form with an elongated snout, open mouth with carved teeth, and alert, upright ears
- Palette: A vibrant red ground with a dense, energetic application of orange, blue, yellow, and purple dots and dashes, accented with bold black outlines
- Vision: Drilled circular eye openings, accented with black radial lines
- Interior: Unfinished, showing clear tool marks consistent with hand-carving techniques
- Hanger: Cord loop attached at the top for wall display
- Estimated date: Late 20th century (c. 1980s–1990s)
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Paint remains vibrant with only minor surface scuffs consistent with age. See photos for exact details.
Catalogue Note
This mask is a dynamic representation of a coyote, a prominent trickster figure in Mesoamerican folklore. The piece is characteristic of the Guatemalan highlands style, where artisans create zoomorphic masks for use in traditional performances such as the Baile de los Animalitos (Dance of the Little Animals). The mask's form is confident and expressive, defined by its long snout and open-mouthed grin.
The entire surface is animated with a vibrant, confetti-like painting technique over a commanding red base. This decorative approach serves a practical purpose in festival settings, enhancing the mask's visual impact and conveying the chaotic, energetic nature of the character. The carving and painting are consistent with workshop production for the folk art market, which draws heavily on authentic ceremonial traditions.
Key Highlights
- Authentic hand-carved Guatemalan folk art mask
- Represents the iconic coyote figure from traditional dances
- Vibrant and meticulous polychrome paintwork over a red base
- Excellent example of late 20th-century artisan workshop carving
- A powerful piece of cultural art ready for wall display
Display and Care
- Designed for indoor wall display
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and high humidity to preserve the paint
- Dust gently with a soft, dry brush only
Attribution and Condition Notes
Attributed to a Guatemalan highlands workshop based on the carving style, energetic paint application, and form. The piece is in excellent condition for its age, with surface wear and patina that are consistent with vintage folk art. No structural damage or repairs are noted. Please see the detailed photos for exact condition.
FAQ
What does this mask represent? It represents a coyote, a trickster animal figure central to many traditional Guatemalan festival dances that explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Is this an authentic piece of folk art? Yes. Its materials, construction, and artistic style are fully consistent with the tradition of Guatemalan mask-making from the late 20th century.
How do I hang the mask? The mask includes a durable cord loop at the top. It can be hung securely on a standard picture hook or nail anchored into the wall.
