Mask, Himachal Pradesh

27,500.00

This unique mask is meant to be worn by female members during ritualistic performances sports a rather large open mouth with teeth peeking out. There is a diamond-shaped mark or “tilak” on the forehead and the hair is represented with parallel wavy lines and black color residue. We also find traces of red and white colors on the forehead.

Dimension: 14X9.5 Inches
Medium: Wood

SKU: MA023 Category: Tags: , ,
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In Himachal Pradesh, traditional masks depict seetu or lion, braktoo or leopard, deities, demons, Dharamraj or God of death, Bajrapani, Padamsambhava, etc. These characters are predominant in performing arts, like the Chham or devil dance, folk theatres like Swang, Karyala, Dhuria swang, and many more. Masks are also used in festivals like Shyala, Naranattar, Deothan, Nirsu, Hinger, Bhuda Chhango and Padeyie.

Dedicating these masks to local Gods like Grama Devata (village deity) and Kula Devata (family deity) has been the compelling factor for artists to continue this tradition of mask making, an ancient craft still pursued with much zest. Some masks are made to be kept inside the temples, whereas others are placed at the entrances of village homes to keep away evil spirits.

Additional information

Weight
Dimensions

14X9.5 Inches

Medium

Wood

Provenance

Himachal Pradesh