Pierre Nichols Signed Gourd Mask – Hand Carved & Painted, 2012

This artist-signed gourd mask by Pierre Nichols (dated 2012) is a striking fusion of contemporary folk art and ancient Southwestern motifs. Hand-carved from natural gourd and painted with bold geometric lines and stylized animal imagery, the mask reflects Nichols’ distinctive visual language—one deeply influenced by the Indigenous Mimbres culture of New Mexico.

The surface is split into graphic halves, one matte black and the other incised in terracotta tones with depictions of deer, rabbits, birds, and other symbolic figures. Inset mirrored glass forms the eyes and mouth, while three tall, carved wood “feathers” rise dramatically from the crown, painted to echo tribal forms. The piece is signed “Pierre Nichols 2012” on the interior and retains a metal wire hanger for display.

Pierre Nichols is a New Mexico-based artist known for his intricate gourd work and painted devotional objects. His reproductions of Mimbres pottery motifs have earned acclaim from collectors and archaeologists alike, with several examples held in the permanent collection of the Mimbres Heritage Center Museum.

Condition:
Good condition overall. Light surface wear consistent with age and display use. No notable damage, chips, or repairs. Paint and structure remain solid and vibrant.

Size:

16 x 10 x 3 inches

Materials: Gourd, carved wood (feathers), mirrored glass, paint, metal wire
Signed: “Pierre Nichols, 2012” on interior rear

Please Note: Soup for Scale in Photo