Nepal, ca. early 20th century CE. A fabulous paper mache mask depicting a Hindu deity, handpainted in hues of scarlet red, cobalt blue, forest green, gold, burgundy, black, and white. In Nepal artisans have traditionally created masks representing the images of deities including Shiva, Buddha, Tara, Dipankar, Durga, and Ganesh as wellas representations of lakhes or demons. The term paper mache is French for paper pulp; however, in Nepal paper mache is made by mixing alternative materials like Nepali rice paper with cotton, jute, mud, and plaster. Once it is molded into a mask form, it is ready to be painted with an array of bright colors. This example also has holes in the eyes for the wearer, indicating that it was intended to be used in a dance festival rather than mere decoration. Size: 5.75" W x 6.75" H (14.6 cm x 17.1 cm)

Provenance: Ex- L. Story collection, Denver, CO acquired before 1965

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#113055

One separation to paper mache on headdress one nearly invisible puncture to top end of headdress.