Kiengpa mask – Monpa – Wood – India

Unique Kiengpa (zombie) mask from the Monpa tribe of India. Kiengpa (Citipati) mask featuring a Memento Mori-style head, evoking the supremacy of the spirit over death for Buddhist monks. It was used during ritual dances, notably the Yak Dance celebrating the New Year.
Monpa, Arunachal Pradesh, Eastern Himalayas, India. Good condition with a good aged patina.

Provenance: former private collection from Germany