Mask
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About This Item
Records indicate that this mask may be attributed to contemporary folk artist Gerardo Ortega, whose family is known for their distinctive ceramica fantastica, or cara fantastica, bright and fanciful style. This style of ceramic is also called barro betus: barro for clay, and betus referring to resin of the pine tree "betus" in the paint on the mask which creates a bright sheen.
- Date
- 20th Century
- Maker
- Gerardo Ortega
- Geography
- Santa Cruz de Las Huertas, Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico, Central America
- Medium
- clay
- pine resin
- Context
The Americas—which span North, Central and South America—contain a rich diversity of indigenous art and material culture that is closely tied to the environment. Beginning in the 16th century, the arrival of outsiders led to devastating changes in landscape and community, resulting in loss of language and traditional lifeways. Highlighted objects are from cultural groups indigenous to the Amazon region: the Karajá (also, Caraja), the Xavante, the Tapirapé, and the Kayapo. While artistic practices vary between communities, they are all linked to traditional knowledge. Due to the effects of globalization and environmental degradation, many community members today must work hard to maintain their traditions and ensure their survival.
- Height
- 7.5 in
- Width
- 7.5 in
- Depth
- 5 in
- Copyright
- Copyright status unknown. Some materials in these collections may be protected by the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.). In addition, the reproduction of some materials may be restricted by terms of gift or purchase agreements, donor restrictions, privacy and publicity rights, licensing, and trademarks. Transmission or reproduction of materials protected by copyright beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the copyright owners. Works not in the public domain cannot be commercially exploited without permission of the copyright owner. Responsibility for any use rests exclusively with the user.
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- 1599