Vejigante Masks Artisan Pin

This vejigante mask pin is made by a Puerto Rican artisan and is made of wood and is hand-painted.  Each one is unique!

The Vejigante (Vay-he-GAHN-tay) is a fantastic, colorful character introduced into carnival celebrations in Puerto Rico hundreds of years ago.  He is a classic example of the blending of African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences in Puerto Rican culture.  During the carnival celebrations in Loiza, Aldea and Ponce, they roam the streets in groups and chase children with their “vejigas.” (goat bladders) The use of masks for social and religious ceremonies in Puerto Rico goes back to the late 17th century when techniques and materials such as paper-machie were adopted from Asia.  This pin is reminiscent of the coconut-based style commonly found in Loiza on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, with its basis in Afro-Latino history.

Comes pinned to a description card about the vejigante.

Size: Approximately 2″ including horns.

Head on over to our blog for an excellent overview and history of these Masks:

• Puerto Rican Cultural Icon: The Vejigante
• Vejigante Masks: A Puerto Rican Tradition

Masks are a cultural tradition throughout the world. Head on over to the Museum of Cultural Masks to see examples of masks, including vejigantes.