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Large ancient shamanic mask from the Bon animist religion (Magar, Gurung, Limbu, Raï, Tharu, Tamang, Terai peoples), Nepal.

This mask is made from a fungus that grows on a local tree, the Lingzhi mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum). This fungus is slightly worked to give it a human appearance with strong apotropaic value: these masks are worn ritually to frighten evil spirits, or hung near doors and windows being considered benevolent deities incarnate or representatives of the ancestors, therefore protectors of the house and the family. It is also used during shaman invocation ceremonies as useful protection against the magical powers of evil.

The mask is in excellent condition. It is of hard consistency with three original holes on the sides and in the top to allow wearing or hanging on walls.

The appearance is disturbing but definitely fascinating and of great strength.

References: Pannier, F. (ed.), Himalayan Masks, 5 Continents, 2009.

Provenance: bought in situ on a field trip in 2019 / 2020

Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes

Tribal mask - Nepal

Southeast Asian, Oceanic & American Art

Reserve price

No reserve price

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tomorrow

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Size

S (10–40 cm)

M (40–80 cm)

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Object

Tribal art and objects

Tribal sculptures statues carvings and figurines

Statue

Tribal jewellery and adornments

Sculpture

Tribal masks

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Country of origin

Indonesia

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Asia

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Material

Wood

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Wool

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Shell

Softwood

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Wood (Teak)

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Gender

Women

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Condition

Good condition

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Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear

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Very good

Very good condition - slightly used with small signs of wear

Fine

Very poor - showing significant decay, loss of original texture or solidity of the material

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Period

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21st century

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20th century

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Turquoise

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Certification

No laboratory report

Non-CITES species

Subject

Oceania

Tribal art and culture

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Style

Antique

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Edition

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Language

English

Southeast Asian, Oceanic & American Art

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Tribal mask - Nepal

Popular in Southeast Asian, Oceanic & American Art

260 objects

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