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Rare Antique Hammered Metal Shaman Mask – Himalayan Region – ca. 1900
€395Bid from €356
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About this seller
Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 4 sales
Product description
Rare Antique Hammered Metal Shaman Mask (Tin/Zinc Alloy) – Himalayan Region – c. 1900
Specifications: Artistically Hand-Hammered Sheet Metal | Mounting Holes All Around | Exclusive Metal Ethnography
An exceptional and extremely rare discovery within the international art trade: a legitimate antique, hand-hammered metal shaman mask (made from an early tin, zinc, or sheet metal alloy) from the Trans-Himalayan region (Nepal / Tibet border area). This ritual mask dates from the late 19th to the early 20th century (c. ). While 95% of surviving masks from this region are made of wood, this metal 'armor-mask' represents a highly rare ceremonial variant.
Forgework & Apotropaic Symbolism
This brutal, metal wall object exudes an unprecedented minimalist primal force and acts as an unwavering eye-catcher in any high-end or modern interior:
The Hammered Features: The mask was hand-hammered into shape by a local smith over an anvil or wooden mold. The almond-shaped eye sockets and the expressive, leaf-shaped or heart-shaped open mouth are cut out with brutal precision. The bridge of the nose stands powerfully in relief.
The Ring of Holes for Ceremonial Collars: Unique and iconographically crucial is the continuous ring of hand-punched, square and round holes along the complete outer edge. Historically, a heavy ceremonial collar of horsehair, textile, or leather scraps was attached to this to completely conceal the shaman's identity during ecstatic dances.
Mineral Earth and Temple Patina: The metal surface possesses a magnificent, weathered oxidation skin. It is covered with a layered, bone-dry crust of fossilized lime and mineral residues, mixed with the jet-black tarnish of decades of incense soot and sacrificial fats.
Product Details
Representation: Shaman Mask / Ritual Protective Mask (Metal Tribal Art)
Material: Hand-hammered sheet metal (tin/zinc alloy) with original mineral oxidation and soot patina
Origin / Style: Himalayan Region (Nepal / Tibet)
Dating: Late 19th / early 20th Century (c. 1900) – Guaranteed antique
Condition: Exceptional antique condition. Beautifully stable metal with authentic hammer marks, legitimate mineral incrustations, and a fully intact perforated edge. 100% nonsense-free.
Dimensions
H 23.5 × W 18.5 cm
Additional details:
- Brand: 1stbuddha
- Style: Himalayan
- Style: Tribal Art
- Material: Tin
- Material: Zink
- Period: Late 19th / early 20th Century (ca. )
- availability: in_stock
- product_type: Masker
Specifications
CategorySculptureConditionVery goodColorsBlackMaterialMetalSeller locationDamme, GermanyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 4 sales