Detail Photos

Genuine old masks from Himachal Pradesh are exceedingly rare now days. Little of the exact specifics of how the masks were used is known, but it is probably a safe assumption that there were at least broad similarities with the way similar masks were/are used in Nepal, especially the far west and the Karnali River basin.  There is a long history of crossover ties with people and kingdoms of that area.

The style - primitive carving, but with some rudimentary degree of realism - often, as here, featuring a leering grin. Simple line work indicates hair and beard.  This is then - a quintessential Himachali sub-himalayan mask.  Condition is very good, with nice patination.