Vintage Guatemalan Lion Mask | Strength & Vigilance
Vintage Guatemalan Lion Mask | Strength & Vigilance
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The lion is not an ancient Maya animal, but it became part of Guatemala’s evolving highland mask tradition as an image of strength, authority, and vigilance. This mid-century mask by the Aj Canil Family of Chichicastenango shows how Indigenous carving traditions absorbed new figures while continuing to give animals symbolic presence.
Hand-carved from wood and painted in saturated ochres, reds, turquoise, and concentric details, the mask is defined by carved fangs and a pronounced mane. Its vintage patina and surface wear contribute to the character of a singular piece rather than a reproduction.
Details
- Artist: Aj Canil Family
- Origin: Chichicastenango, Guatemala
- Material: Hand-carved wood with natural and acrylic paints
- Date: Mid-20th century
- Design: Lion with carved mane, fangs, saturated color, and concentric painted details
- Condition: Vintage patina and surface wear; see photos
- Symbolism: Strength, authority, and vigilance
- Availability: Singular piece; one available
Symbols do not have to be ancient to become meaningful. Sometimes a culture adopts a figure because the qualities it represents are already understood.
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If a product is listed as one-of-one, vintage, a unique specimen, or the exact piece photographed, that is the piece you will receive. Repeatable apparel and multi-unit products may use representative photography and will match the purchased style, size, color, and listed specifications.
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