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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Skull Masks and Sculptures : Guanacaste-Nicoya Stone Skull Mask
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Stone Skull Mask - PF.3529
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 1
AD
to 500
AD
Dimensions:
5.5" (14.0cm) high
Catalogue: V18
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Stone
Location: UAE
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| Description |
Carved of a light beige stone, this skull mask is
captivating. The surface color and texture of the
mask resembles the real human bone, creating
more mysterious and unforgettable image and
essence. Its large hollow eyes and the high
cheekbones show distinct physical structure,
which add to the realistic portrayal of the skull.
The mouth is open wide to display the intricately
rendered teeth. In addition to the four small
holes around the mask, both ends of the teeth by
the jaws are hollowed out, perhaps for a
significant functional or a symbolic purpose.
Conveying the idea of death and after-life, this
mask most likely was created as a ritual offering
or as a funerary mask. The concept of death did
not mean the end for Ancient Meso-Americans
but a step that everyone must take to enter the
underworld and the after-life. Accepting the
natural cycle of human life, Meso-Americans
were not afraid to confront the concept of death.
Incorporated in their daily life and rituals, the
idea of life and death are often expressed in their
art forms. This magnificent mask grabs our
attention in an instant. As we contemplate the
artwork, we are invited to confront the inevitable
idea of life and death, and we are reminded of an
ancient culture and its images that flourished
hundreds of years ago.
- (PF.3529)
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