Mahakala Mask With Repousse Work - Made in Nepal

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Name: Mahakala Mask With Repousse Work - Made in Nepal
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: ZEC98
Price: 150.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$129.75

$173

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

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Specifications

	ZEC98
	Copper Statue
	Height: 5.7 inch
	Width: 4.6 inch
	Depth: 1.8 inch
	Weight 180 gm

Delivery and Return Policies


	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

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Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

The Auspicious Protector: A Mahakala Copper Mask

Crafted with exquisite repoussé work in Nepal, this striking copper mask embodies the formidable and protective spirit of Mahakala. The mask is a testament to the rich artistic traditions of the Himalayan region, where such powerful imagery is deeply woven into the fabric of spiritual practice. Mahakala, a wrathful emanation of Avalokiteshvara (the Bodhisattva of Compassion), is a Dharmapala, a divine protector of the Dharma, whose fierce aspect is understood not as malevolence, but as the embodiment of ultimate power that conquers obstacles and ignorance. The intricate details of this mask speak volumes of its spiritual significance. The fearsome expression, with bared fangs and furrowed brow, is meant to intimidate and dispel negative forces. The three eyes symbolize Mahakala's omniscience, seeing past, present, and future, and his ability to perceive the true nature of reality. The crown adorning the forehead is intricately detailed with smaller skull motifs, alluding to Mahakala's dominion over death and illusion, and his role in transcending worldly attachments. Skulls are often depicted as garlands worn by Mahakala, representing his victory over the cycle of birth and death and his ability to consume the ego.

A Masterpiece of Nepali Craftsmanship

The repoussé technique, employed masterfully in the creation of this mask, involves shaping metal from the reverse side to create a raised, three-dimensional design. This meticulous process, passed down through generations of Nepali artisans, imbues the copper with a remarkable depth and vitality. The dark patina accentuates the raised features, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow that enhances the mask's powerful presence. The curls and swirling patterns around the face and ears further add to the dynamic energy of the piece, suggesting constant movement and an active, protective force. Each element, from the sharp teeth to the curling ear ornaments, is rendered with precision, reflecting the dedication and skill of the craftsman. This mask is more than just a decorative object; it is a conduit of spiritual energy. In Tibetan Buddhism, Mahakala masks are often used in tantric rituals and sacred dances, such as the Cham dance, to invoke protection, overcome inner demons, and promote spiritual awakening. The presence of Mahakala is believed to ward off evil spirits, negative karma, and worldly afflictions, paving the way for enlightenment and well-being. Owning this mask is an invitation to connect with this potent divine energy, bringing a sense of security and spiritual fortitude to your surroundings. Whether displayed as a piece of sacred art or as a symbol of protection, this Nepali copper mask serves as a powerful reminder of the triumph of wisdom and compassion over darkness.

How are Nepalese copper statues made?

Nepalese statues and sculptures are best known for their unique small religious figures and ritual paraphernalia for over two thousand years. These are mainly cast in copper alloy. Nepal draws influences from the artistic styles of Buddhism and Hinduism, and therefore the sculptors of the country specialize in making the icons of both these religions. Over the years, Nepalese sculptures evolved into their own distinctive iconography. Some characteristic features of these sculptures that differ from other pieces are exaggerated physical postures, youthful and sensual features, languid eyes, wider faces having serene expressions, and ornate flourishes. The Buddhist deity icons of Nepal have tremendous demand in countries such as China and Tibet for ritual purposes in their temples and monasteries.

Nepalese statues and sculptures have a high copper content and therefore develop a slightly reddish patina on the surface as they age. However, the most unique feature of Nepalese copper statues is their decorative detailing. The pieces are heavily gilded and sometimes inlaid with semi-precious stones. This embellishment protects them from getting tarnished. The traditional lost-wax method for casting Nepalese copper statues remains the most practiced technique in Nepal for many centuries. This process involves many steps and requires skilled artists.

The first step in lost-wax sculpting is to make a wax replica of the desired Buddhist deity to be cast in copper. This replica is created by hand and therefore needs excellent artistic skills otherwise fine features will be lacking.

Once the wax replica is made, it is then coated with a special mixture of clay with a brush. This layer of clay is hardened when left to dry. A small hole is made on the base of the wax mould so that the wax flows away when it is heated.

At this stage, a hollow mould in the shape of the deity is obtained.

This is the time to pour liquid copper into the hollow mould which is then allowed to cool and harden inside a container of cold water. When the liquid metal has hardened, the mould is removed and the statue within is revealed.

The artist works on the details of the statue using various tools. It is then polished to get a shiny and lustrous surface.

Now comes the most important part of Nepalese art which is gold gilding. This is done by the traditional fire gilding method. A mixture of mercury and 18K gold is applied on the surface of the statue and heat is applied using a flame torch. The result is that mercury evaporates along with impurities, leaving a pure 24K gold finish.

The lost-wax method of sculpting is the most preferred technique

for artists to cast a metallic statue having intricate details. Since Nepalese copper sculptures require extraneous effort for giving a majestic look by adding special embellishments, it takes several weeks to complete one masterpiece. A 24K gold gilded copper sculpture retains its brilliant luster for many years and appears as like before. Nepalese sculptures continue to remain one of the finest specimens of the art of the East that have a strong aesthetic appeal that other sculptures cannot match.