the fierce protector Bhairava with flaming polychromed hair, wearing a crown with a small head of Shiva at center, with flaming eyebrows and beard, the three wide bulging eyes and a gaping mouth

Himalayan Art Resources item no. 13097.

Acquired late 1990s.

Wear, accretion, patination and losses to pigment throughout with multiple lugs at reverse. Mounted on stand.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Masks such as these would have been used during Hindu festivals in Nepal to dispense alcohol to devotees, through the small hole visible at the center of the mouth.