Guatemala's Masks and Drama HARDCOVER by Jim Pieper - BRAND NEW - C

Description

BRAND NEW - STILL IN PLASTIC WRAP --
ISBN-13: 978-0-8263-4142-6
ISBN-10: 0-8263-4142-X
UPC: 9-780826-341426
Large Book - 12.25" x 9.25" x 1"
This book addresses the development and evolution of masking, dance, and drama within the culture of Guatemala. The reader will venture behind the mask to uncover its very essence. The book aims to expose both the knowledgeable and novice collector to new levels of understanding. Hundreds of masks are photographed and identified, drawn from the finest Guatemalan mask collections in the world. Many of the masks are accompanied by contextual photographs showing how they relate and function within the culture. We will evaluate mask surfaces, discuss patina and repair, and establish a conceptual criteria to help conclude the age of a mask as well as to arrive at an intuitive evaluation regarding its past use.
We will visit a number of unique mask and costume rental organizations called Morerias where the walls and ceilings are covered with costumes and beautifully carved masks. Included are translations of a number of old dance/drama scripts which will allow the reader to understand the relationship of the masked character and its place within the ritual dance culture. This book not only addresses the many traditional masks but will take the reader into the world of fold deities: idol type figures, such as Maximon/San Simon and Judas, who themselves wear masks. They all accept prayers and offerings while representing a pantheon of Mayan deities and Catholic saints who may also drink, smoke, and even dance. They may reside in silver shrines, wooden coffins, or make a spiritual transition so they may be hung or burned.
It is our hope that this book will allow the reader to view and touch the reality of the mask, to smell the fragrance of copal, feel the rhythm of the drum and the melody of the marimba, and maybe even share a drink with a life-size masked folk deity. In the process, we hope the reader will briefly join another reality and touch the very soul of the Guatemalan people.