Ritual anthropomorphic mask carved in wood with official export seal – Nepal / Region - Wood - Late 20th century
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This late-20th-century Nepalese carved wooden anthropomorphic ritual mask measures 30 × 24 cm and bears an official export seal.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Superb and expressive anthropomorphic hardwood mask monoxyle (carved from a single piece of wood), from the Himalayan region (Nepal / Tibet) and dating from the 20th century. The face features powerfully stylized traits, characteristic of the tribal and shamanic art of this geographic area.
The work stands out for its remarkable and bold manual sculpting:
• Tiered and wrinkled forehead, symbolizing wisdom or antiquity.
• Hypertrophied and protruding cheekbones, giving the piece a strong theatrical and ritual presence.
• Smiling mouth revealing a row of very regular stylized teeth.
• Smiling mouth revealing a row of very regular stylized teeth.
• Magnificent deep patina of use, alternating dark brown hues and reddish highlights under light, bearing witness to a traditional polishing method.
Major authenticity feature:
The inner reverse retains its official red wax seal (cultural export authorization stamp, typical of the Archaeology Department of Nepal certifications). This rare detail guarantees its ethnographic interest and certified origin, a highly sought-after point for seasoned collectors.
The back shows superb gouge marks entirely executed by hand. The mask is equipped with an original metal fitting on the upper part, ready for display.
"Notable presence of an official red wax seal of authentication/export on the inner reverse (typically linked to the Archaeology Department certifications for Himalayan art), ensuring its cultural interest and origin."
• Very good overall condition of preservation. Superb surface patina. Minor signs of age and natural handling that reinforce its authenticity (see photos).
Superb and expressive anthropomorphic hardwood mask monoxyle (carved from a single piece of wood), from the Himalayan region (Nepal / Tibet) and dating from the 20th century. The face features powerfully stylized traits, characteristic of the tribal and shamanic art of this geographic area.
The work stands out for its remarkable and bold manual sculpting:
• Tiered and wrinkled forehead, symbolizing wisdom or antiquity.
• Hypertrophied and protruding cheekbones, giving the piece a strong theatrical and ritual presence.
• Smiling mouth revealing a row of very regular stylized teeth.
• Smiling mouth revealing a row of very regular stylized teeth.
• Magnificent deep patina of use, alternating dark brown hues and reddish highlights under light, bearing witness to a traditional polishing method.
Major authenticity feature:
The inner reverse retains its official red wax seal (cultural export authorization stamp, typical of the Archaeology Department of Nepal certifications). This rare detail guarantees its ethnographic interest and certified origin, a highly sought-after point for seasoned collectors.
The back shows superb gouge marks entirely executed by hand. The mask is equipped with an original metal fitting on the upper part, ready for display.
"Notable presence of an official red wax seal of authentication/export on the inner reverse (typically linked to the Archaeology Department certifications for Himalayan art), ensuring its cultural interest and origin."
• Very good overall condition of preservation. Superb surface patina. Minor signs of age and natural handling that reinforce its authenticity (see photos).
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Height
30 cm
Width
24 cm
Title of artwork
Ritual anthropomorphic mask carved in wood with official export seal – Nepal / Region
Condition
Good condition
Authenticity
Original/official
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