9061. Indian Bronze Boar Headed Bhuta Mask

Kerala, South India Ca 17th to 18th Century AD.

The large and fine casting representing the avatar of Vishnu who rescued the earth Goddess from the deep ocean. Would have functioned in a processional as a festival mask.
In the form of a boar's head, with raised brows, bulging eyes with circular pupils, elongated snout with two pierced circular nostrils, protruding tongue, and rows of sharp pointy teeth and bared fangs, wearing circular ear ornaments encircled by a band of cobras interspersed with tapering finials.
The present example is a representation of one of the popular spirit deities, known as bhuta masks are represented with an aureole of raised cobra hoods, which signifies the power and importance of the Deity.

Measurements: 12-1/2 inches H (32cm) + custom mount.

Ex Tanja Former Collection.


For two related examples see Pal, Dancing to the Flute, pp. 198-99, no. 120.

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