Tibetan Cham Mask, Snow Tiger

Carved and painted wooden mask, its colors, as well as the skulls which decorate its diadem represent a wrathful deity, protector of practitioners and teachings (Dharmapala) within esoteric Buddhism (Vajrayāna). Despite their often aggressive appearance, they are beneficial deities. (Protector) The power emanating from the Cham masks illustrates the immense energy that the consciousness must deploy to confront and overcome the obstacles standing on the path to spiritual Liberation, the Cham dances are performed by monks during the important festivals which gather in the courtyard of the monastery with the faithful. Tibet or Nepal, early 20th century. Provenance: Estate of the collector and art dealer Claude de Marteau. Approximately H 43 cm x W 23 cm x D 16 cm Sold without base, normal wear marks and small vintage accidents (see photo).