Central Asia, Nepal, Himalayan region, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A wonderful, hand-carved wood mask somewhat resembling a skull as it displays an expressive visage with large, openwork eyes, a straight nose, sunken cheeks, and a huge mouth exposing 2 rows of lengthy teeth. The vizard is capped by an elaborate headdress, comprised of 2 tiers and a finial, all decoratively incised with vertical stripes. A rich mocha-hued patina envelops the entirety of this unique example. Size: 6" W x 9.8" H (15.2 cm x 24.9 cm); 15" H (38.1 cm) on included custom stand.

The Himalayan masking tradition is not as well-known as those from Africa or Southeast 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 environments 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.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex Dr. Edward A. Spiegel (1931 to 2020) collection

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#166977

Losses to proper left side. A few stable fissures. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions throughout, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice with rich patina. Collection label on verso.