Rare Antique Hammered Metal Shaman Mask – Himalayan Region – ca. 1900
€395Bid from €355.50
0 are viewing this item0 favorites
Buy with confidence
Shop & pay safely with Buyer ProtectionDesigner items curated by WhoppahWe only pay the seller once you have safely received the item
Trusted payment methods
Top rated on
About this seller
Private seller
Damme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 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