Indian Silver Shiva Mask

This, fine silver mask shows the god Shiva. The deity is shown as a youthful man – probably as a youthful, princely warrior. He has been depicted with a tall, elaborate crown, large earrings, and large almond-shaped eyes which is typical of such depictions in South India. Other features include triple eyebrows, a leafy third eye, pursed lips, fleshy cheeks and chin, and a high necklace around the neck.

The mask would have been used as an ornate visage for an image of the deity while it was being worshiped in a temple (perhaps on an important festival day) or as a processional image.

The silver used is particularly high grade, as befitting an item made for religious worship. Traditionally, Hindus regarded silver as a ritually ‘pure’ metal.

A similar silver Shiva mask is in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

The mask is in excellent condition, and is accompanied by a custom-made metal display stand.