Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Indian Subcontinent: Himalayas (4)

Old and Primitive Nepalese Mask with a Great Patina. 11.5h x 6.5w inches, 29h x 16.5w cm.

19th Century Nepalese Butter Churn Handle. A fine piece of folk sculpture that is well patinated from considerable use. 10 inches, 25 cm. Very Good Condition.

The phurba is one of the most important of the shaman's implements, and this particular phurba is an exceptional example of the great effort and tremendous creativity that goes into the making of this magical tool. It has an upper section with 3 faces, one smiling, one wrathful, and one peaceful. The middle section is a vajra (symbol of lightning) whose twin tips rest on knots of eternity. The lower section represents Makara, the water divinity, who holds in his mouth the the triangular blade around which snakes are entwined. This phurba has a further uncommon touch, an animal rests atop it. Really a very fine example of Nepalese religious art. 8 inches, 20 cm. Very Good Condition.

19th Century Nepalese Shaman Sculpture with traces of yellow and red pigment and an incredible, dense, dark patina. So thick and dark is the amazing patina that the necklace that covers the chest and back, and the carvings on the skirt, are barely visible. The hole on the bottom indicates that this was likely the handle of a dagger or staff. The old customs seal is also on the bottom. 8 inches, 20 cm. Very Good Condition.