Mexican "Pastorela" Nativity Festival Devil Mask - "El Diablo"

This Mexican devil mask, or "diablo" mask, was created for the pastorela of Suchitlán in the state of Colima.

The people of Mexico have used masks since 3000 BC. Priests used masks to summon the power of deities and in the sacrifices of pre-Hispanic Mexico. The Spanish conquerors and missionaries used masks to educate newly converted Christians and to "shock and awe" the indigenous people through dramatic presentations such as the Battle of the Moors and the Christians. As the two cultures fused, masks reflected their mutual influences.

In Mexico, masks are used as part of the tradition of the village festival, honoring the patron saint of the town, and major Christian holidays. Participants fulfill religious vows by their involvement in the festival, while the dances educate as well as interpret and inform the community of shared values and concerns. The masks are part of scripted dance dramas involving music, song, fire and feasting, that could last for several days.

Source:
http://www.statemuseum.arizona.edu/exhibits/santosdiablos/info.shtml http://www.thecalifornian.com/article/20110917/LIFESTYLE/110915007/Hartnell-College-displays-Mexican-festival-mask-collection
http://www.masksoftheworld.com/Mexico/Mexican Devil Mask 3.htm