Brought together for the first time in a unique exhibition, the 15 jade Mayan masks presented at the Pinacothèque in Paris from 26th January to 10th June 2012 are fascinating testimonies to the Mayan civilisation and its customs.
Exceptional Jade Masks of the Mayas at the Pinacothèque in Paris
After the success of the The Incas’ Gold: origins and mysteries exhibition, the Pinacothèque is continuing its exploration of pre-Columbian and Meso-American cultures kicking off 2012 with a wonderful exhibition of jade mosaic masks.
These exceptional masks, some of which were made more than 2000 years ago, have been completely restored by specialists in Mayan archaeology. 
Found in tombs, the 15 masks taking centre stage at the Pinacothèque comprise the most important archaeological discovery of the last ten years in Mexico.
Displayed alongside hundreds of other works, they represent the different deities of the Mayan Pantheon and were made for the most prestigious governors.
While some of them were worn for ritual ceremonies, others accompanied Mayan leaders to their burial chamber: seven funeral trousseaux, comprising necklaces, ceramics and other offerings, have been completely reconstituted for this exceptional exhibition.
Pinacothèque de Paris :
- 28, Place de la Madeleine – Paris 8ème
- Daily from 10:30 to 18:30 ; late openings every Wednesday and Friday
- Metro : Madeleine Station, lines 8, 12 et 14
- Further information: Jade Masks of the Mayas
L’Hotel d’Aubusson Paris, a 4 star hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain des Prés