This striking ritual mask originates from the Middle Hills of Nepal, a region with a rich tradition of shamanic and animistic practices. Masks of this type were used in ritual contexts associated with healing, ancestor worship and protection from illness or malevolent spirits.

The mask presents a powerful, highly stylised human face with a long prominent nose, deep-set round eyes and a slightly open mouth revealing four distinctive, block-like teeth. Numerous small perforations around the edges and across the surface probably served to attach animal or yak hair, fur or plant fibres, originally forming eyebrows, a beard or wild hair. These organic elements have disappeared over time, leaving the perforations as evidence of the mask’s original appearance.

The wear marks on the reverse and along the sides are consistent with prolonged use and handling. Its archaic carving, lost organic attachments and rich smoke-blackened patina give the mask a particularly powerful and compelling ritual character. It is associated with indigenous communities of the Middle Hills, including the Magar, Gurung and Tamang, and reflects the spiritual world of Himalayan shamanism.

Late 19th / early 20th century
25 × 34 cm (9.8 × 13.4 in)