Vintage Guatemalan Laughing Dog Mask
Vintage Guatemalan Laughing Dog Mask
★★★★★ Rated 4.9/5 by collectors
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Specifications
- Character: Laughing Dog
- Artist: Unknown Guatemalan artisan
- Origin: Guatemala (Attributed by style)
- Material: Hand-carved wood with polychrome paint
- Design: A stylized canine form with a long snout and a wide, open mouth carved into a joyful, laughing expression, revealing a full set of teeth.
- Palette: A white base covered in an intricate field of multi-colored dots and dashes (red, orange, purple, black, blue), creating a vibrant, confetti-like effect. Ears are boldly painted with vertical stripes and solid colors.
- Vision: Almond-shaped eye openings with black painted outlines.
- Interior: Unfinished, raw wood with visible tool marks from the carving process.
- Hanger: Natural fiber cord loop attached for wall display.
- Estimated date: Late 20th Century (c. 1970s-1990s)
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The vibrant paintwork is largely intact with minor surface wear consistent with age. Please see photos for exact details.
Catalogue Note
This is an extraordinarily joyful and unique piece of Guatemalan folk art, representing a "Laughing Dog." The anonymous artist has captured a wonderfully spirited expression through the wide, open mouth and visible teeth, giving the mask a lively and exuberant character. The entire surface is a testament to the artist's meticulous hand, covered in a celebratory explosion of multi-colored dots and dashes over a pristine white base, creating a dynamic, confetti-like texture.
This intricate pattern is complemented by the bold, striped ears, adding another layer of visual interest. It's a mask that exudes happiness and playful energy, embodying the vibrant spirit of Guatemalan festivals and traditional art. This is a truly one-of-a-kind piece that brings a sense of whimsical charm and authentic handcrafted artistry to any space.
Key Highlights
- Joyful "Laughing Dog" mask from Guatemala.
- Features a wide, open mouth with a spirited expression and visible teeth.
- Vibrant, multi-colored dot and dash pattern over a white base.
- Authentic, hand-carved vintage wood folk art.
- A whimsical and unique statement piece for any collection.
Display and Care
- Designed for indoor wall display as a piece of art.
- 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 its distinctive carving style and complex, multi-layered painting technique. The rustic finish and visible tool marks on the interior confirm its authentic, handmade origin. The condition is excellent for a vintage piece of this nature.
FAQ
What does this mask represent? This mask represents a "Laughing Dog," depicted with a wide, joyful expression and vibrant, artistic paintwork, characteristic of playful figures in Guatemalan folk art.
Is this item handmade? Yes, absolutely. The distinct carving marks on the interior and the unique, freehand painting are clear evidence that this is a one-of-a-kind, handmade piece.
What is the artistic style? The style is a complex layering of intricate patterns. It features a pointillist-like background of multi-colored dots and dashes, creating a textured and highly energetic visual effect.
