Lot 166
Central Asia, Nepal, Western or Middle Hills region, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A weathered spirit rises from this Western Nepalese shaman mask, its hollow eyes and sharp, planar features pared down to an elemental geometry. The wood is deeply worn, softened by ritual use, insect loss, and time. Across the surface, scattered traces of green and dark pigment cling like the last embers of ceremony, hinting at a once more vivid, living presence. Such masks are attributed to the hill tribes of Nepal's Middle Hills, particularly the Magar, Gurung, Tamang, and Rai peoples. Their stark abstraction is intentional - a face stripped to its spiritual essence. In shamanic practice, these forms allowed the wearer to transcend individuality and embody ancestors, protective forces, or local deities. Used in healing rites, funerary ceremonies, and dances led by village shamans, these masks also served as household guardians when suspended indoors, believed to repel malevolent spirits. Size: 5.5" W x 10.6" H (14 cm x 26.9 cm); 15.6" H (39.6 cm) on included custom stand.
The Gurung, or Tamu, dwell along the southern slopes of the central Himalayas, their name drawn from Ta for thunder and Mu for sky. Their belief system blends Buddhism, Hinduism, and enduring strands of mountain animism. Shamans, known as Panju and Klihbri, acted as intermediaries between human and spirit realms. The Magar, among the region's oldest tribes, inhabit the western flanks of the Dhaulagiri massif and follow a syncretic tradition shaped by Bon, Buddhism, and nature worship. Both groups carved masks of comparable form and purpose, creating objects that served as vessels of power and ritual presence.
The interior of this mask is heavily worn and hollowed, recording long, active use. Carved from a single block of hardwood, it remains resolutely direct - an artifact of the Himalayan highlands with a presence that is quiet, enigmatic, and enduring.
Provenance: Private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-David Pusack collection
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#197346
- Condition: Heavy weathering to surface with chipping, losses, nicks and abrasions, as well as old, inactive insect holes. Rich patina throughout. Trace remaining pigments in areas.
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