TIBETAN
Skull, dance mask
(20th century)

Medium
pigment, papier maché, cotton

Measurements
27.7 × 22.0 × 13.7 cm

Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 2006

Gallery location
Not on display

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.

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TIBETAN Skull, dance mask (20th century)

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TIBETAN
Skull, dance mask
(20th century)