This is a Black Mompa monk's mask from Bhutan, South Tibet or the Sherdukpen people of Arunachal-Pradesh. The monastic arts of this part of the world are very varied, reflecting the mosaic nature of the landscape. Interestingly, this mask was used for theatrical rather than purely religious presentations. The mask is in wood and finely carved, with an old encrusted thick layer of black offering materials. It originally had a layer of white pigments as can be seen on some missing chipped areas. It represents an old lama. These masks where danced during the "Mompa festivals" for the "Cham" dance in Monasteries, telling the stories of fights between deities and evil spirits. Finely carved and very expressive. Provenance: Jan Kusters, Netherlands. H= 25cm

Vintage condition, remains of offerings.

24.8 x 28.7 x 11.9 cm