Antique Nepalese Shaman Mask with Hair & Ritual Sign – ca. 1900–1930

Nepalese wooden shaman mask with natural hair

Origin: Nepal, Middle Hills / Himalayas
Date: ca. 1900–1930
Material: hand-carved wood with natural hair remnants
Dimensions: H 33 × W 22.5 cm
Weight: 500 g

Ritual imagery and expression

The mask has narrow eye openings, a strongly projecting nose, an open mouth and separately articulated ears. A large trident-like ritual sign is incised on the forehead, while natural hair survives above the mouth as a moustache.

Construction and evidence of use

The reverse is deeply hollowed and preserves clear chopping and chisel marks. An old metal carrying or suspension element remains between the ears. Short vertical cuts around the mouth emphasize the teeth-like edge.

Patina and condition

The wood carries a deep dark-brown to black-brown patina with long-term wear, old shrinkage cracks and lighter rubbed areas. The mask remains unrestored and retains its original ethnographic character.

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.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

Read the shipping policy and the refund policy.

Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.