Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz (Peruvian) Majeno Dance Mask Master Hand-Crafted Ceremonial Mask
This expressive Majeno Dance Mask is a completely original and individually hand-crafted ceremonial work by Peruvian master mask maker Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz. Created in Cusco, Peru, the mask belongs to the visual tradition of the Danza Majeno, one of the emblematic dances performed during the celebrated Festividad de la Virgen del Carmen de Paucartambo.
The piece is distinguished by its highly theatrical character and unmistakable profile. The mask features an elongated nose, vivid blue eye, arched black eyebrow, red linear facial accents, a bright red mouth, and a sculpted pointed beard, all reinforced by an animated expression full of personality and movement. A flowing natural fiber moustache and beard element adds depth, texture, and a strong performative presence, making the work especially striking both as a ceremonial object and as a display piece.
Within the festival tradition, the Majeno character is associated with elegance, wit, and festive theatricality, recalling historical figures linked to trade and regional cultural exchange. This mask captures that spirit beautifully through its stylized features, vibrant painted surface, and playful yet commanding expression. It is an excellent example of how living dance traditions in the Andes transform mask-making into a highly refined folk art form.
The craftsmanship is especially notable in the clean sculptural modeling of the face, the carefully balanced polychrome decoration, and the dramatic silhouette created by the long nose and open mouth. The result is a visually memorable and highly collectible work that reflects both ceremonial tradition and the individual artistry of the maker.
Entirely hand-crafted and hand-painted, this mask is a unique original creation. It represents an outstanding example of contemporary Peruvian ceremonial art and will appeal strongly to collectors of masks, festival traditions, Latin American folk art, and authentic hand-crafted cultural objects.
ARTIST
Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz is a recognized Peruvian mask maker associated with the traditional festivities of Paucartambo, Cusco. His work preserves and reinterprets the rich ceremonial mask-making practices linked to the dances of the Virgen del Carmen celebration, one of the most important popular religious festivals in Peru.
PROVENANCE
Acquired directly from the artist in Peru for Gallery Arts & Auctions Co.
AUTHENTICITY
This mask is a completely original and individually hand-crafted creation by Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz.
A Certificate of Authenticity issued directly by the artist may be provided upon request, when available.
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUE
Individually modeled and hand-painted ceremonial dance mask with applied fiber elements and sculptural detailing.
DIMENSIONS
Height: 8 in.
Width: 7 in.
COLLECTION NOTE
Carefully selected in Peru by Gallery Arts & Auctions Co. as part of its ongoing effort to present exceptional examples of authentic Peruvian ceremonial and folk art. This original Majeno mask stands out for its distinctive theatrical expression, refined hand-painted details, and direct connection to the traditional dances of Paucartambo.
Condition
Excellent overall condition. Original painted surfaces and applied fiber details are well preserved, with no visible major structural damage, repairs, or restorations. Minor irregularities are consistent with careful hand-crafted production and traditional use of artisanal materials.
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
This expressive Majeno Dance Mask is a completely original and individually hand-crafted ceremonial work by Peruvian master mask maker Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz. Created in Cusco, Peru, the mask belongs to the visual tradition of the Danza Majeno, one of the emblematic dances performed during the celebrated Festividad de la Virgen del Carmen de Paucartambo.
The piece is distinguished by its highly theatrical character and unmistakable profile. The mask features an elongated nose, vivid blue eye, arched black eyebrow, red linear facial accents, a bright red mouth, and a sculpted pointed beard, all reinforced by an animated expression full of personality and movement. A flowing natural fiber moustache and beard element adds depth, texture, and a strong performative presence, making the work especially striking both as a ceremonial object and as a display piece.
Within the festival tradition, the Majeno character is associated with elegance, wit, and festive theatricality, recalling historical figures linked to trade and regional cultural exchange. This mask captures that spirit beautifully through its stylized features, vibrant painted surface, and playful yet commanding expression. It is an excellent example of how living dance traditions in the Andes transform mask-making into a highly refined folk art form.
The craftsmanship is especially notable in the clean sculptural modeling of the face, the carefully balanced polychrome decoration, and the dramatic silhouette created by the long nose and open mouth. The result is a visually memorable and highly collectible work that reflects both ceremonial tradition and the individual artistry of the maker.
Entirely hand-crafted and hand-painted, this mask is a unique original creation. It represents an outstanding example of contemporary Peruvian ceremonial art and will appeal strongly to collectors of masks, festival traditions, Latin American folk art, and authentic hand-crafted cultural objects.
ARTIST
Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz is a recognized Peruvian mask maker associated with the traditional festivities of Paucartambo, Cusco. His work preserves and reinterprets the rich ceremonial mask-making practices linked to the dances of the Virgen del Carmen celebration, one of the most important popular religious festivals in Peru.
PROVENANCE
Acquired directly from the artist in Peru for Gallery Arts & Auctions Co.
AUTHENTICITY
This mask is a completely original and individually hand-crafted creation by Ronal Sanchez Santa Cruz.
A Certificate of Authenticity issued directly by the artist may be provided upon request, when available.
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUE
Individually modeled and hand-painted ceremonial dance mask with applied fiber elements and sculptural detailing.
DIMENSIONS
Height: 8 in.
Width: 7 in.
COLLECTION NOTE
Carefully selected in Peru by Gallery Arts & Auctions Co. as part of its ongoing effort to present exceptional examples of authentic Peruvian ceremonial and folk art. This original Majeno mask stands out for its distinctive theatrical expression, refined hand-painted details, and direct connection to the traditional dances of Paucartambo.
Condition
Excellent overall condition. Original painted surfaces and applied fiber details are well preserved, with no visible major structural damage, repairs, or restorations. Minor irregularities are consistent with careful hand-crafted production and traditional use of artisanal materials.
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
