Atsara mask

Tibet
Early 20th century
Wood, polychromy, fabric
28 cm

The Atsara are a kind of sacred joker of Himalayan Buddhism, very present in Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan. They intervene during the dances of the Cham, and take part in the ceremonies beside the deities of the Buddhist pantheon, imitating and caricaturing their actions, and doing tricks to the spectators.