Shaman
Mask
Nepal, ca.1900 AD
mushroom - height: 27.5cm
This rare and expressive mask was presumably worn by a Shaman to connect with spirits living in proximity to the existing world in order to perform shamanic practises, such as healing rituals and warding off evil energies. It is also believed that these masks protect the home in which they reside.
The material used for this mask is a type of mushroom, most likely Lingzhi fungus. The mask is treated in such a way that it has a hard structure, similar to wood. Few other examples of Nepalese mushroom masks survive, making the present a rare work of art.
Shamanic Nepalese masks are usually simplistic in terms of decorations, but strong in shape. The present has a rather interesting form, possibly as a result of the limitations of the material used. The gaping mouth, wide almond shape eyes, and horn-like features protruding from the face’s cheeks make the present mask unique in all aspects.
PROVENANCE
Private collection, France
RELATED LITERATURE
Pannier, F. (ed.). Masks of the Himalayas. 5 Continents, 2009.
Shaman
Mask
Nepal, ca.1900 AD
mushroom - height: 27.5cm
This rare and expressive mask was presumably worn by a Shaman to connect with spirits living in proximity to the existing world in order to perform shamanic practises, such as healing rituals and warding off evil energies. It is also believed that these masks protect the home in which they reside.
The material used for this mask is a type of mushroom, most likely Lingzhi fungus. The mask is treated in such a way that it has a hard structure, similar to wood. Few other examples of Nepalese mushroom masks survive, making the present a rare work of art.
Shamanic Nepalese masks are usually simplistic in terms of decorations, but strong in shape. The present has a rather interesting form, possibly as a result of the limitations of the material used. The gaping mouth, wide almond shape eyes, and horn-like features protruding from the face’s cheeks make the present mask unique in all aspects.
PROVENANCE
Private collection, France
RELATED LITERATURE
Pannier, F. (ed.). Masks of the Himalayas. 5 Continents, 2009.
