Central Asia, Nepal, ca. 19th century CE. Hand-carved from wood, this is a delightful mask with small eyes, nose, and ears on a wide face. The mouth is shown with teeth clenched, each tooth carefully delineated. Stippled dots form lines around the eyes and flowing outward from the mouth. The sides are pierced for suspension. The Himalayan masking tradition is not as well known as those from Africa or Southeastern Asia, and today some of the original information has been lost due to fading oral traditions. Masks like this one relate to indigenous, animist traditions that developed in the harsh, wild environment of the Himalayas, and so they are often representations of local spirits. They were made to be worn in masquerades, glimpsed through light from lamps burning butter as oil. Size: 7.25" W x 11.5" H (18.4 cm x 29.2 cm)

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection acquired in Bangkok, Thailand

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#124378

Dark patina from handling and age. Lucite display not included.