A large, beautiful polychrome mask with a striking expression, associated with Cham dances and depicting a Buddhist deity, in this case Mahakala, one of the greatest protector-gods of the teachings. For a mask featuring the same iconography and wearing a crown decorated with skulls, see the one acquired by Alexandre David Neel in Lhasa in 1924 and kept at the Musée Guimet (MA3307). Himalayas, Northern Nepal, 19th century Wood, pigments, visible wear and chips, beautiful patina. Height: 39.5cm Provenance: Galerie Eburne, Paris Galerie Eburne, Paris Stéphane Kurc Collection, Paris