Lot 4
 
Quick Zoom
A Bhuta Mask    


Bronze

20th century
Tulunadu, South Karnataka

Height: 16 in (40 cm)
Width: 18 in (45 cm)
Depth: 9 in (22.5 cm)



Bhutas are spirits or supernatural beings that exist in various forms and are worshipped by devotees out of both respect and fear. In northern Kerala and coastal areas of Karnataka, bhutas often represent spirits of local heroes and animals, and play several important roles in the daily life of the villagers. They may be benevolent or malevolent, and can either bless or punish. In these areas, bhuta worship is particularly theatrical, and during worship rituals, devotees connect directly with bhutas through the 'spirit mediums' that don their masks and come to embody them. Once the ceremonies were completed, these masks were returned to the temples, where they were worshipped as representations of the spirits.

This bhuta mask represents either 'Jarandaya' or 'Jumadi', in a seemingly benevolent form with a fierce yet smiling countenance. 'Jumadi' is known to be a benefactor, who fulfils wishes and maintains justice. The mask has finely detailed features including a pair of fangs, thick eyebrows and moustache, circular ear ornaments surmounted by three-headed 'nagas' or cobras, and a two-tier 'naga' aureole crown.




Other similar works in: this auction  |  entire site



  Lot 4 of 120  

FOLK AND TRIBAL ART AUCTION
26-27 FEBRUARY 2013

Estimate
Rs 5,00,000 - 7,00,000
$9,620 - 13,465

Winning Bid
Rs 5,17,500
$9,952
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)






This work is mounted on a metal stand, approximately 6 inches high, which is fixed to a wooden base measuring 3 x 14 x 14 inches



 



Need help? Please check our guides on How to Bid. Auction Tips and FAQs.Email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Tel: +91 22 6855 4100 / 6855 4155 (Mumbai), (212) 627 5006 (New York), 44 (0) 20 7409 7974 (london), (91 11) 2436 9415 (New Delhi)