Diablo

This mask was inspired by a Mexican paper mache mask I had seen at a friend's house. The diablo (or devil) figure is quite popular in the Mexican tradition of paper mache, known as Cartineria.

I wanted to keep the folk art feel of the way the diablo figure has been treated, and consequently went with the traditional elements of the horn, flame motifs and kept the coloring of the mask traditional as well--deep reds, black and blues. The only "glamour" touches are in the German, glass glitter added to the eyelids and the lips; the effect of the glitter is subtle.

This mask has a shellac finish, consequently the surface is very glossy and thus the mask is somewhat difficult to photograph; I've tried to keep the shine off as much as possible.

Like many of the masks featured here, this one too is hand held. The handle is wood and ends in a "flame" detail.