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12. Mask of Mahakala Nepal Tibet border area 19th-20th c. paint on wood 13.5 " h |
This mask is a pair with the previous, slightly smaller mask, a pair of guardians, or red and blue Mahakala masks, used in ceremonial dances. Likely from the Nepal/Tibet border region, either Sherpa or perhaps Tamang, they are forceful portrayals of the Tibetan Buddhist wrathful guardian deities. These masks are worn high on the head, with the dancer seeing out through the mouth of the mask, thus increasing the height and impression. Detail: Side Detail: Back |