About this lot

Description

A carved tree fungus protective spirit mask, Central Nepal, early 20th century,

of primitive, naturalistic form with pierced eyes and mouth and applied separate nose, 18cm high



Provenance:
Acquired in February 1991



Footnote:

Still worn today during the celebrations of Kathmandu Valley's Panga Carnival, masks fashioned from fungus were designed to offer protection against malevolent spirits and suggest an intimate relationship with the natural world.



Condition report:

Light stress cracks around nose

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