MATERIAL: Wood
TYPE: Mask
DIMENSIONS: Height: 36 centimeters (14.25 inches)
ITEM ID: 5382
Yao Hand Carved Ceremonial Wooden Mask
DATE
Century: 20th (1901-2000)
Notes: Early to mid-20th century
A Yao hand-carved ceremonial wooden mask.
The Yao people inhabit southern China and northern Vietnam, with small enclaves in Thailand, Burma, and Laos. They have syncretic Daoist and animist religious beliefs. Yao shamans use wooden masks to invoke god spirits for protection or successful hunting expeditions. Shamans may also use the masks to heal the sick.
Religious
Rare and beautiful objects related to spiritual traditions around the world.
