Superb anthropomorphic (ancestor) mask, around 1800 ·  Nepal, Middle Hills · ID: 3039692

Description

wood, remains of blackish patina, encrusted with white pigment, strongly darkened in parts, clear defined regular facial features, noble profile, slightly dam., missing parts (forehead to the left, rim to the right), traces of insect caused damage (backside), metal base;
all religious groups in Nepal, Hindu, Buddhist and Bon, include masked performances in their ritual. Diverse forms of theatre and pantomime were developed to recount exploits of gods and heroes and to illustrate local legends. Masquerades are performed on occasion of initiation ceremonies or for entertainment. Aside there are masks with protective function. In the Middle Hills masks are hung over the doors of cattle sheds, barns or dwelling places. Their hideous demon faces are designed to frighten away bad spirits and to prevent thunderbolts from falling on the houses. At a persons death a mask with human features might be made in his memory to give him merit in the next world.