Shaman mask – Wood – Nepal

Such masks are among the most primitive in use in the world, and are made by carving wood. The shaman plays an important social role as the channeler of spirits for healing, purification, and protection of those under his supervision. Masks help the shaman embody one of the spirits that surround the living world and use it to heal the sick, drive away evil influences, and guide villagers through changes in their lives (birth, adulthood, changes in social status, death) that might be affected by the spirit world. When hung in a house, the mask serves a protective function. Provenance: former private collection from Germany

Object:	Shaman mask
Ethnic group:
Country:	Nepal
Material:	Wood
Period:	Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:	No
Dimensions:	28x20x8 cm
Weight:	400 gram
Condition:	Good condition, used with some signs of wear