Terms and Conditions
The artist, title and date of the work must be listed anywhere the image is reproduced:
Tibetan
Skull, dance mask (20th century)
pigment, papier maché, cotton
27.7 × 22.0 × 13.7 cm
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 2006
Photo: National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Where possible, the image must be reproduced in full (no cropping or over-printing). If you wish to use a detail of the work, a full reproduction of the work must also be reproduced elsewhere in the publication.
While the NGV believes this work to be in the Public Domain, it is the responsibility of the publisher to ensure that no further permissions are required for use.
For a complete list of terms and condition of use see the National Gallery of Victoria’s copyright policy.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Tibet
Accession Number
2006.286
Department
Asian Art
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Gordon Darling Foundation
Physical description
The skull mask is formed from layers of fabric and, possibly, paper, bound with protein glue, and painted. The gruesome effect of the mask is enhanced by its combination of realistic detail and lurid palette. The skull is accurately shaped and has fine cracks painted on it, to indicate the surface of bone, combined with vivid red eyeballs and mouth. The third eye painted on the forehead indicates spiritual perception.