Cedar Jaguar Mayan Warrior mask: handcrafted Mexican folk art

• Measurements: 19.5 x 13.5 x 13 Inches
• It comes with a very strong hook on the back to attached to any wall. It can also satay firmly on a flat surface.
• Made of cedar and handcrafted with homemade tools; thus, you may notice a minimum difference in patterns on pictures shown.
• This is a beautiful carved sculpture representing the Mayan Culture

This sculpture is a modern, hand-carved wooden mask depicting an Aztec or Mayan "Jaguar Warrior" (Ocēlōtl). These masks are popular examples of Mexican folk art, handcrafted in regions of Yucatán, and they blend ancient Mesoamerican iconography with vibrant, contemporary craftsmanship.

Key Features & Symbolism
1. The Jaguar Headdress
The top of the mask is dominated by a fierce Jaguar (or Tiger) head. In Aztec and Mayan cultures:

The Jaguar was a symbol of strength, bravery, and the night. It was the "Lord of the Animals" and a spirit companion (nahual) to kings and warriors.

The Fangs: The warrior's face is carved as if it is looking out through the open jaws of the feline, a style known as a "helmet mask." This symbolized the warrior "becoming" the animal to gain its power in battle.

2. The Feathered Crown
Above the jaguar is a fan-like structure representing a feathered headdress. This mimics the famous quetzal feather headdresses worn by Mesoamerican nobility and elite military orders. The alternating colors (yellow, green, orange) emphasize the status and divinity of the figure.

3. Geometric Face & Earspools
Geometric Patterns: The lower face features a "tiled" or mosaic appearance with bold geometric shapes. This often represents traditional textile patterns or the stone mosaic work (like turquoise) found on ancient artifacts.

Earspools: The large, circular carvings on the sides of the face represent ear flares, a standard form of jewelry for the elite in ancient Mesoamerica. Below them are carved tassels, further signifying high rank.

Artistic Style
Material: It appears to be carved from a single block of wood (likely cedar or mahogany) and finished with vibrant wood stains or acrylic paints that allow the natural grain of the wood to remain visible.

Modern Craftsmanship: While the design is ancient, the clean lines and specific "rainbow" color palette suggest this is a contemporary piece created for decorative use or as a collector's item of Mexican handicraft.

Would you like me to help you identify similar styles of Mexican folk art, like Alebrijes or beaded Huichol art?