Antique Folk Art Papier-Mâché Duck Mask
Antique Hand Made, One of a Kind, Papier-Mâché Donkey Mask.
Acquired in vintage shop in New York in the early 1990’s. Approx. 50 years old. Possibly Mexican.
Measures 8 inches width x 8.5 inches height x 5 inches depth. I would suggest it is now meant for display, as opposed to wearing it but as you prefer. Definite signs of aging, but holds together nicely.
Seems to resemble Disney’s Donald Duck.
Asking $100.
Cartonería or papier-mâché sculpture is a traditional handcraft in Mexico. The papier-mâché works are also called “carton piedra” (rock cardboard) for the rigidness of the final product. These sculptures today are generally made for certain yearly celebrations, especially for the Burning of Judas during Holy Week and various decorative items for Day of the Dead. However, they also include piñatas, mojigangas, masks, dolls and more made for various other occasions. There is also a significant market for collectors as well.
Papier-mâché was introduced into Mexico during the colonial period, originally to make items for church. Since then, the craft has developed, especially in central Mexico. In the 20th century, the creation of works by Mexico City artisans Pedro Linares and Carmen Caballo Sevilla were recognized as works of art with patrons such as Diego Rivera. The craft has become less popular with more recent generations, but various government and cultural institutions work to preserve it.