Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. An intriguing example of a mold-formed papier mache mask depicting the face of a Citipati, a skeletal protector deity in Tibetan Buddhism. The expressive mask features gaunt cheeks flanking a petite nose, recessed eye sockets with protruding red-bead irises, a vertical third eye centered on the forehead, and a wide mouth filled with incised teeth. The white-painted mask is accentuated by areas of crimson and jet-hued pigment, and the hollow verso enables the mask to be worn. Size: 7.7" W x 10.7" H (19.6 cm x 27.2 cm); 14.7" H (37.3 cm) on included custom stand.
Despite their bulging eyes, gnashing teeth, and overall frightening appearance, the Citipati protect the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) from forces of dejection and ignorance. The Citipati are worldly guardians, each with a third eye of wisdom. Typically depicted in pairs, the skeletons or Citipati (also known as Chitipati) represent a pair of lovers known as the Lord and Lady of the funeral pyre, whose sacred skeleton dance symbolizes the eternal dance of death as well as the arrival at absolute consciousness. In the traditional performance of the Tibetan Skeleton dance at cemeteries, the two Dharmapalas (Protectors of Truth) are played by Monks. They are deities whose primary role is to protect the cemetery grounds. Beyond this, their presence signifies the ephemeral nature of this earthly world and reminds the audience members of their own mortality. The cult of the Second Buddha, Padmasambhava, planted the seed for this practice through their rich mythological literature.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Hawaii, USA collection
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#150516
Condition
Minor abrasions to obverse and peripheries, with darkening to original pigment, and petite nicks around eyes and teeth, otherwise intact and excellent. Great earthen deposits and traces of original pigment throughout. Old inventory label within hollow verso.