Mask - Nepal - 1970-1980 - Mahakala Protector Mask

Purely hand-carved by local craftsmen in Nepal, it is the Mahakala Mahakala protector mask actually used in temple rituals. The whole thing is carved from solid wood and hand-painted using traditional mineral paint. The main color is strong red, supplemented by blue, yellow, white and black colors. The carvings are rich in details, with a third wisdom eye carved on the forehead and five skull crests carved on the crown, symbolizing the subjugation of the five poisons; the eyes are wide and glaring, the facial muscles are sharp and exaggerated, the mouth is carved with sharp fangs, the ears are wide and curled, and there are curled flame patterns carved on both sides of the cheeks, which completely reproduces the image of Mahakala's majestic and angry protector.
The overall condition of the mask is in good condition. The paint surface shows signs of natural wear and tear. There are some slight paint peeling and color aging in some areas. These are signs of normal use of old puja utensils and there are no penetrating cracks. The back is a hollow wearing structure with reserved openings for wearing, and the inner wall is painted with gray paint.