Rai or Tamang, NEPAL.
Important and rare mask carved in a mushroom, probably of the tinderbox type.
19th century.
Dim : 34 cm.
NOTE: The tinderbox is a parasite that grows especially on the birch tree, which is a tree highly venerated by many cultures with shamanic tradition, because it is supposed to shelter deities or divine beings by themselves (e.g. "tree goddesses"). The mushroom mask is therefore considered to be a protective element, whether it is worn or kept in the home.