Mule Mask Item Number: 3573/10 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Macho (Mule) mask, carved and painted. The face is black, with a gold bridle painted on. The ears are separately carved pieces that are inserted in the face. The nostrils and gums are light pink, with large white teeth. There are large blue eyes, with large curved cutouts. There are two eyehooks at back with a green string.
Mule (Macho) mask traditionally used in the El Güegüense performance (also known as Macho Ratón). El Güegüense is a satirical drama and is regarded as Nicaragua's signature folkloric masterpiece, combining music, dance and theater, performed during the feasts of Saint Sebastian in Diriamba and Saint Anne in Niquinohomo [Information from Wikipedia].
Given to the donor as a gift, c. 1997.