Miniature Mask Possibly 1300 - 1400

This Mixtec mask, dating back to the 1300s or 1400s, is a striking example of ancient Mesoamerican art. Carved from wood and decorated with intricate details, the mask features a prominent, toothy grin and an inlaid shell eye, showcasing the artisans' meticulous skill and use of varied materials. The mask, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, likely served a ceremonial purpose, representing either a deity or a spirit figure, a testament to the rich and complex mythology of the Mixtec civilization.