mask (dance & live theatre)

Devil mask. Large face mask surmounted by a two headed dragon. It has pierced eye-holes, beside large bulging eyes made from light bulbs, and an open mouth with teeth made from mirror glass. The 'ears are made from inner-tube. The mask has two large curled horns. The mask is painted with polychrome colours in gloss paints. The fabric appears to be plastered felt.

The mask is used in a dance drama called 'La Diablada', in which the devils (wearing these masks) are overcome by angels. The devil symbolises wealth and the evil which arises from it, and he is also the protector of the mines. The drama is performed by Bolivian Indian miners but it contains no elements of traditional religion, being entirely inspired by Pagan and Christian rites. It is worn with a costume resembling a Roman legionary. The dance drama is performed on the day of the Virgin of Socavon.

object
MUSEUM NUMBER
3.5.66/1
PLACE
COLLECTION
MATERIAL/TECHNIQUE
mineral plaster; felt; glass; metal; pigment
CATEGORY
Anthropology: Ethnography
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Collection Information

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