Mask, Himachal Pradesh

93,500.00

This beautifully carved mask from Himachal Pradesh is a great find for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The facial features are carefully carved with intricate line work to depict three bands on top of the head, maybe a crown or hair. The finish is eerily beautiful with the fading polychrome residue.

Dimension: 12.5X7 Inches
Medium: Wood

SKU: MA045 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

12.5X7 Inches

Medium

Wood

Provenance

Himachal Pradesh