India & Himalayas

Repro of old India mask

 

Q:  I recently bought this mask (or wall art) from a auction and I don’t know anything about it.
It looks old. If you could tell me who it is supposed to be and what region it comes from I would be pleased.  John, 1824

A:  You made a good find, if you didn’t pay too much. It is highly detailed and very entertaining. I think it is Indian, but am not sure. Let’s hope some of our viewers can help us with that. What I can tell you is that it was made by a talented carver for commercial  purposes. This kind of business now is growing all over the Third World.

The mask is so attractive I hope you will continue your search and let us know what you have learned.  Beginning collectors should study these three photos to see how carefully the carver has aged the piece.  It is important to know that that many sellers will lie to you about authenticity. It is indeed a jungle out there.

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