Kali mask

Tharu people, Terrai, Nepal

14 inches, painted wood

It is from the Terrai, the low lands of southern Nepal. It is also probably 2nd half of the 20th century. What’s especially nice is that it has received a great deal of use and been repainted several times resulting in a wonderful patina. It’s made of heavy, hard wood and the ears are held on with wooden pegs.

This Mask is Kali, the wrathful and very revered form of the Mother Goddess. Simultaneously nurturing and wrathful, repugnant and enticing, terrifying and protective, she wants the best for her devotees who are like her own beloved children. She can propel the devout to the extreme heights of bliss and enlightenment and protect them from anything or anyone who gets in the way. Larger scans are available.

SOLD