Ritual mask - Wood - India - Early 20th century

Polychrome ritual wooden mask – North India area (Object purchased 25 years ago from an antique dealer in Rajasthan). Sacred ritual and theatrical traditions (e.g., Bhairava, masked Lakhey dances, Chhau or Yakshagana).
Hand-carved ritual mask in monoxylous wood, dating from the first half of the 20th century. The face, with strong expressive and symbolic charge, features large wide-open eyes with iridescent circles painted in concentric rings, lips highlighted with red pigment showing finely carved teeth and a ritual mark (tilak / bindi) placed at the center of the forehead. The surface retains extensive traces of the original polychromy, integrated into a rich and authentic patina of time. The back of the piece shows the typical hand-cut artisanal gouging with a chisel and is equipped with a metal hanging hook applied at a later date for display.
A canvas/gauze plaster support (gypsum or stucco with gypsum and animal glue) was laid onto the carved wood before painting. It is a preparation of the highest artisanal craftsmanship, typical of sacred/religious statuary and masking of the Himalayan, Tibetan, and Nepalese area.
Condition: Good overall condition for its age and type. Shows natural wood cracks and uniform wear of the polychromy and gilding consistent with age and original ritual use.
Size: 31x20 cm, 13 cm deep.