Madhesi Animal Spirit Mask, Based

Gilded mask with a long straight nose and wary pink-rimmed eyes.

This animal spirit mask is Madhesi, from Terai, Southwest Nepal, and dates to the early 20th century. It is wood. Masks were often passed down for generations, considered auspicious and believed to contain protective powers, and they were typically cared for meticulously and rubbed with butter to keep a shiny patina. Narrow mask with a ridged forehead, a long straight nose and a smooth chin, finished in worn gold with traces of red around the eye openings. It stands on a thin black stem over a square metal base. It is 8 inches wide, 4 deep and 14.5 high.

Calm, composed, and politely observing from the middle distance.