Lot 294

Mexican Silver Barbone Mask Pre-Columbian Bell, ex-Holler & Saunders

Previous image preload Next image preload
Back to catalog
Lot 294
image_0 image_1 image_2 image_3 image_4 image_5
Mexican Silver Barbone Mask Pre-Columbian Bell, ex-Holler & Saunders
Mexican Silver Barbone Mask Pre-Columbian Bell, ex-Holler & Saunders
image_0 image_1 image_2 image_3 image_4 image_5

Mexican Silver Barbone Mask Pre-Columbian Bell, ex-Holler & Saunders

Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000

Starting Bid: $2,000

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
June 11, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Latin America, Mexico, Guerrero., ca. 1900 - 1949 CE. A dramatic and finely worked example of a so-called "Barbone" mask, this silver visage merges European physiognomy with fantastical animal imagery, its surface alive with repousse detail and theatrical expression. The face, unmistakably bearded and foreign in character, is framed by curling, textured locks and punctuated by almond-shaped eyes set above crescent-cut openings, while the open mouth reveals two widely spaced, prominent teeth that lend the mask a striking, almost animated presence. Hammered from high-grade silver of approximately 94.6% purity, the mask is richly ornamented with confronting coyote figures across the brow, their bodies arched in tension, suggesting movement and symbolic confrontation. Interestingly, a small coyote-form bell earring, dating to the Mixtec Pre-Columbian culture, suspends from one side, adding both visual intrigue and a subtle kinetic element. Size: 7.5" W x 10" H (19 cm x 25.4 cm); silver quality: 94.6%; total weight: 400 grams

The reverse retains its original canvas cloth backing, with a later leather strap affixed through side suspension holes, allowing the piece to be worn or displayed. Though once attributed to pre-Hispanic traditions and even linked to the rain deity Tlaloc, such interpretations have been convincingly challenged. As noted by anthropologist Dr. Fernando Nava, pre-Hispanic rain ceremonies dedicated to Tlaloc did not involve masks of this kind, and certainly not metal examples. In traditional Nahua contexts, dance held sacred importance, often tied to agricultural cycles and appeals for rain, yet the material and physiognomy here point instead to a later, hybridized imagination.

Though once attributed to pre-Hispanic traditions and even linked to the rain deity Tlaloc, such interpretations have been convincingly challenged. As noted by anthropologist Dr. Fernando Nava, pre-Hispanic rain ceremonies dedicated to Tlaloc did not involve masks of this kind, and certainly not metal examples. In traditional Nahua contexts, dance held sacred importance, often tied to agricultural cycles and appeals for rain, yet the material and physiognomy here point instead to a later, hybridized imagination. The result is a compelling hybrid object - part theatrical artifact, part masterful display of silversmithing - reflecting not an ancient ritual past, but the evolving dialogue between indigenous craftsmanship, colonial legacy, and the tastes of a global audience.

Provenance: Ex-private collection of Samuel Saunders, Nogales, AZ, partner of Holler & Saunders, Ltd., founded in 1979 and widely regarded as one of the preeminent authorities in Spanish Colonial and Mexican folk art.

SHIPPING: We coordinate worldwide shipping in-house through specialist international forwarders experienced with fine art and antiquities customs manifests. International buyers must confirm, prior to bidding, that their country's customs authority will accept the item. All duties, taxes, clearance fees, and any costs arising from customs delays, seizures, re-export, returns, or loss in transit are the buyer's sole responsibility. Artemis assumes no liability for items refused entry, detained, or lost after export. We cannot ship ancient items to their country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: For clients not previously established with Artemis, payment for all gold, precious metal, and gemstone lots must be made by bank wire transfer or certified bank check/money order, without exception.

Item # 201755

  • Condition: Bell earring still functions as a bell. Some light bending to silver and small nicks in areas, as well as a few minor perforations. Fraying to canvas on verso. Otherwise, very nice with impressive detail and scattered patina.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 + $1,000