Antique Nepalese Shaman Mask with Carved Teeth – ca. 1880–1920

Nepalese wooden shaman mask with open mouth and carved teeth

Origin: Nepal, Middle Hills / Himalayas
Date: ca. 1880–1920
Material: hand-carved wood
Dimensions: H 21.5 × W 25.5 × D 10 cm
Weight: 1.1 kg

Powerful ritual expression

This broad, heavy mask is carved with small round eye openings, a long narrow nose and a wide open mouth fitted with individually carved teeth. Projecting ears flank the face. Its forceful and deliberately unsettling expression belongs to the old shamanic mask traditions of Nepal’s Middle Hills.

Construction and evidence of wear

The mask was carved from a thick block of wood and deeply hollowed at the reverse. Old rope remnants remain threaded through the side openings and formed part of its former wearing or suspension system. Pronounced chopping and chisel marks remain visible inside.

Patina and condition

The wood carries a deep dark-brown to black-brown patina with old shrinkage cracks, worn edges and small historic losses. Traces of dark and reddish-brown colour remain around the teeth and mouth. The mask remains unrestored.

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

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