ABR 041
Code: ABR 041
Country: Tibet
Style:
Date: 1700 - 1800
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 23 x 22
Materials: Gilt copper
Dakini dance mask
This mask made of embossed copper represents facial elements of the dakini, the female celestial beings of tantric Buddhism. Unlike other wooden dance and ritual masks where the dancer sees through the mouth of the deity (and not the eyes), this mask corresponds to the dancer’s face. The blazing beard, mustache and eyebrows – typical of the wrathful deities – are gilded, whereas the skin parts (nose and third eye) are made of plain copper, emphasizing the contrast.
This mask is said to be used during the dakini offering dance of the Kalachakra tantra initiations. However, it is also used during Tsechu, the 10th lunar day festival, devoted to Padmasambhava.
This mask made of embossed copper represents facial elements of the dakini, the female celestial beings of tantric Buddhism. Unlike other wooden dance and ritual masks where the dancer sees through the mouth of the deity (and not the eyes), this mask corresponds to the dancer’s face. The blazing beard, mustache and eyebrows – typical of the wrathful deities – are gilded, whereas the skin parts (nose and third eye) are made of plain copper, emphasizing the contrast.
This mask is said to be used during the dakini offering dance of the Kalachakra tantra initiations. However, it is also used during Tsechu, the 10th lunar day festival, devoted to Padmasambhava.