Dance of Diablado
Bolivia, late-20th cent.
Unpainted tin from recycled alcohol cans
(14 1/2" w. x 12" d. x 15" h.)

According to myth there was once an Andean bear. The origin of the mask could be credited to both the indigenous people, europeans or even the Chinese. The bear appears as a figure in many of the street dances, including the Carnaval and Gran Poder during summer solstice. the entire costume has an aura of humor as then participants must wear a body suit made of fake fur to make themselves look beasty.