This jaguar mask evidences the artistic stylizations of western El Salvador, where the original was found adorning sculpture number 26 of Sonsonate Department. From the Jaguar Archeological Project, this mask is carved from a cedar wood branch, for they are committed to preserving the environment and not cutting down trees. Painted details enhance the mask's features including labyrinthine patterns around the nose, exposed teeth and ornate eyes. Throughout El Salvador there have been found images depicting the jaguar with a crest, big mouth and fangs, as well as an inverted u shaped nostrils and swirling eyes. Known as Balam or Chac, according to Maya cosmogony the jaguar represents nature’s elements: water, earth, fire, and air. Maya shamans, priests and rulers used the jaguar as a symbol of authority and leadership. The upper part of the head usually represents life elements, and the lower part connotes a skeleton. Jaguar masks are believed to represent the transformation of a human into a being with magical powers.
Language: English
