M Velazquez Mexican Deco silver repousse "portrait" Brooch

A figural repousse Mexican Deco brooch in sterling silver this "portrait" piece bears the signature of early Mexico City maestro M. Velazquez. Over the years of my love affair with vintage Mexican silver jewelry, I have come to know and appreciate Velazquez's work for its "earthiness", its craftsmanship and the interesting designs he created. The specific "mask" motif I have had a few times in the past in necklace, ring and brooch forms but always anonymous. Often described as an Aztec or Maya "nobleman" the design has been a challenge for me since I first saw it because of the figure's obviously protruding tongue which brings to mind Mexica representations of Tlaltecuhtli, the fierce Earth god / goddess. Very different from the deity's classic iconography, whom does this "portrait" depict and why is their tongue showing?

Size / Weight: 2 1/4" tall by 2" wide; 23.3 grams

Hallmarks / Date: "M VELAZQUEZ" as well as "MADE IN MEXICO" and "STERLING"; 1930s

Condition: excellent vintage with great patina, beautiful, confident repoussage and no damage or repairs noted

Inv# 15789