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Super Large Size Yogi (Hermit) Wooden Mask Statue from Nepal

$928.50
$1238
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes

Amongst the many gifts of the Himalayan nation Nepal to the world, is a serene and heavenly retreat for the Yogis and followers of Yoga. The home of Shiva who is revered as Adiyogi (the first Yogi) and the refuge of Buddhist practitioners, Nepal is a haven for the followers of supreme wisdom. A piece of its tranquility comes to you as this large Yogi mask from Nepal, infused with classic elements of Nepalese art and vivid colors.

 

The hermit or yogi has an elaborate hairdo with a beaded string tied to it, thick brows, a beard, and a mustache which the maker artistically delineates. The flesh folds on the forehead and cheeks of the hermit suggest an advanced age, highlighting that he has been immersed in Yoga for quite some time. As a result, an eternal grin appears on his face, while his meditative eyes glow with a hint of yellow and blue, amplifying the mystical appeal of the artwork.

Specifications
ZEO054
Wood Statue From Nepal
Height: 73 inch
Width: 7 inch
Depth: 11 inch
Weight 10.50 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Vision of Ascetic Wisdom

This striking wooden mask statue, hailing from the spiritually rich land of Nepal, embodies the profound essence of a yogi or hermit. Standing tall and commanding, it draws inspiration from the ancient traditions and philosophies that have shaped the Himalayan region for millennia. The craftsmanship evident in this piece speaks volumes of the skill and dedication of Nepalese artisans, who have transformed humble wood into an object of deep symbolic meaning and artistic beauty. The exaggerated features, from the piercing, wide-set eyes to the open mouth with its bared teeth, are not merely decorative but carry a potent spiritual resonance. Such masks are often used in traditional performances, rituals, and as focal points for meditation, serving to evoke a state of heightened consciousness or to represent powerful archetypes. This particular depiction suggests a being of immense spiritual power and austerity, one who has transcended worldly desires through rigorous ascetic practices. The serene yet intense expression is reminiscent of the great sages and yogis of Hindu mythology, figures like the great Shiva, who is often depicted with matted hair and a powerful, contemplative gaze, a renunciant detached from the material world. ––––––––––

Echoes of Tradition and Spirituality

In Nepalese culture, masks play a vital role in religious ceremonies and festivals. They are believed to possess the power to connect the earthly realm with the divine, and to embody the spirits of deities, demons, or ancestral figures. The intricate detailing of the hair, both on the head in a traditional topknot and in the flowing beard, along with the stylized ornamentation, reflects the rich visual vocabulary of Tantric Buddhism and Hinduism, which are deeply intertwined in Nepal. The vibrant colors, though subdued by time and the natural patina of wood, still convey an energy and vitality that draws the viewer in. This mask could be seen as representing a form of "Mahasiddha," a great adept in Tantric Buddhism, who achieved spiritual enlightenment through unconventional means and often displayed formidable powers. Alternatively, it may symbolize a formidable ascetic, like Bhairava, a fierce aspect of Shiva, known for his power to destroy negativity. This imposing statue is more than just a decorative item; it is a portal to a world of ancient wisdom and spiritual discipline. Its substantial size makes it a statement piece, capable of transforming any space into a sanctuary of contemplation and cultural appreciation. The inherent character of the wood, combined with the artist's skill, gives the mask a living quality, as if it holds within it the echoes of countless prayers and meditations. It serves as a tangible link to the enduring spiritual heritage of Nepal, inviting contemplation on the nature of self-discipline, detachment, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.
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2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.
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3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.
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4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.
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How to care for Wood Statues?


Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.

 

  • Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

 

  • Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

 

  • You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

 

  • Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

 

It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster. 

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