Diablada mask worn during the Diablada (Dance of the Devils) annual celebrations in Bolivia
- Made:
- 2006
Diablada mask worn during the Diablada (Dance of the Devils) annual celebrations in Bolivia, by Rene Flores Ordonez, 2006
Over the centuries, different cultures have devised rituals of varying form to appease the spirits and prevent misfortune.
Papier-mâché masks like this are used in a carnival dance by the mining community of Oruro in Bolivia, performed annually since the 1790s. Known as ‘Diablada’, or Dance of the Devils, it originated from earlier ceremonies honouring the Bolivian god Tío, protector of the mine.
Miners face the daily threat of accidents and the long-term risk of diseases such as silicosis, caused by breathing dust. Many continue to make offerings, hoping Tío will keep them safe.
Details
- Category:
- Art
- Object Number:
- L2019-019
- Materials:
- papier-mâché
- Measurements:
-
overall: 595 mm x 508 mm x 315 mm, 1.5 kg
- type:
- mask
