Leroy
Tommy
Aunt Sylvia
Cousin June
Cousin Lester
Sister Esther
Baby
Junior Haislet
Lost Heads of the Modotpetoc Tribe
A pre-hispanic hunter gatherer people, the Modotpetoc were indigenous artisans. Inspired while consuming peyote, they created memorial masks of respected ancestors. These are the Lost Heads exhumed from ancient inland sand dunes, possibly burial sites, under the Civic Center in the City of San Francisco.
Archaeologists found the masks during excavation for a new government building. They are ornamental face coverings worn during ceremonies that honor both the dead and those still alive. The masks are considered to be icons of deities that are celebrated and worshiped by the Modotpetoc tribe, typically those who experience great seismic events.
Continuing the customs to perpetuate the myth, modern day Modotpetoc display masks on homes. These are guardians and sentries that welcome and celebrate seismic events. They represent bravery, not fear, and serve to greet rumbles of the beloved deceased.