Very old Monpa mask. Arunachal Pradesh, India, Eastern Himalayas.

Very old Monpa mask. Arunachal Pradesh, India, eastern Himalayas.
"Son of the hunter Apa".
Wood, glossy black patina, traces of red pigments This mask is the mask of one of the sons of the hunter Apa.
Provenance: former collection Dominique Rabier
Collection Liliane and Michel Durand-Dessert.
Bibliography: Himalayas - Art et Shamans - Eric Chazot/ Liliane et Michel Durand-Dessert Editions LMDD, 2009 N° 78
Measurements: 22 x 16 cm.

The mask shown here belongs to the artistic and ritual tradition of the Monpa people, a Tibetan Buddhist community settled mainly in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, in the eastern Himalayas of India. These masks, carved in wood and used in ceremonial dances, represent mythological and ancestral characters of the Monpa culture.

The mask is carved in wood, with a dark patina testifying to its antiquity, and traces of red pigments indicating original decorative details, possibly on lips, cheeks or eyebrows.

It represents one of the sons of the hunter Apa, a central figure in Monpa theatrical performances. In these narratives, Apa is persuaded by his sons not to kill a deer, symbolizing Buddhist compassion. The masks of Apa's sons, such as Mlengchung, are characterized by soft and expressive facial features, with details such as fine wrinkles denoting wisdom and experience.

Monpa masks are used in dances and theatrical performances that combine elements of Tibetan Buddhism with local traditions. These performances not only entertain, but also convey moral and spiritual teachings to the community. The creation and use of these masks are deeply rooted in Monpa cultural identity and reflect a rich artistic heritage that has endured over the centuries.

Similar examples of Monpa masks, including depictions of the sons of Apa, are found in museum collections and galleries specializing in tribal and Asian art, such as the Historisches und Völkerkundemuseum in St. Gallen, Switzerland.