Mixtec

Miniature Mask

1300–1400
Wood, gold foil, and shell with pigment and resin

SEE IT IN PERSON

Not currently on view

In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

View at artic.eduPlan a visit ↗

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Small masks such as this were worn as part of ceremonial attire. Figures representing deities and ancestors were often attached to the costumes of the dancers and performers who enacted mythical and historic dramas during theatrical ritual presentations.

Source ↗

Be the first to share your thoughts.

Sign in to join the discussion.

Community guidelines

More by Mixtec

Mosaic Disk with a Mythological and Historical SceneMosaic Disk with a Mythological and Historical SceneTripod VesselTripod VesselShell, Possibly an Arm Band, Incised with Profile Head Framed by Geometric Motifs (Fragment)Shell, Possibly an Arm Band, Incised with Profile Head Frame

More like this

Shell Mosaic Ritual MaskTeotihuacan — Shell Mosaic Ritual MaskFace FlaskArtist unknown — Face Flask“Running in Advance” Mask (Shinshotoku)Artist unknown (Japanese) — “Running in Advance” Mask (ShinsMaskSha — MaskMaskIbibio — MaskFragment of a Vessel or Sculpture Depicting a Human HeadTiwanaku — Fragment of a Vessel or Sculpture Depicting a HumHead Fragment from a Large Ceremonial JarTiwanaku — Head Fragment from a Large Ceremonial JarHead Fragment from a Large Ceremonial JarTiwanaku — Head Fragment from a Large Ceremonial JarMask for Egungun (Ere Egungun)Yoruba — Mask for Egungun (Ere Egungun)MaskOlmec — MaskFudo Myo-o maskArtist unknown (Japanese) — Fudo Myo-o maskMale Face Mask (Chihongo)Chokwe — Male Face Mask (Chihongo)