Mahakala is a deity known in Hinduism and Buddhism. He is often depicted as a fierce, terrifying creature, embodying the wrathful dynamics of deities such as Shiva. Also Mahakala can be seen as a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, a boddhisattva representing the embodiment of universal compassion, who realized his peaceful methods were too mild to subdue the degenerate beings and thus manifested in a wrathful form to accomplish his compassionate intentions.
In Tibetan buddhism Mahakala is seen as a powerful protector of the dharma, which is one of the reasons why masks like this often can be found at the entrance of temples and monasteries.
Symbolism that can often be found in depictions of Mahakala is for example; a third eye, representing clear, true vision and insights, not clouded by the distractions and illusions of the human mind and ego. And a crown with five skulls, representing the five 'poisonous delusions': anger, desire, ignorance, jealousy, and pride. And Mahakala is often depicted in black; the total absence of color, in which all colors just disappear, symbolizing the ultimate, absolute truth.
Also in traditional shamanism, such as the lineage of Spirit of Wolf, depictions of Mahakala (and other wrathful deities) can be found. Here they are also connected with Erlik Han, Lord of the Underworld, and as such used in black shamanic work.
Sizes from this wooden mask are approximately; 23 centimeters high and 20 centimeters wide. Please note that this mask has been broken at one point in its life and glued back together. On the pictures you can clearly see the fracture line going from top to bottom. For this reason the price for this mask is lower than usual. Please note: it might be better to not use this one as an active spirit house anymore (it could be considered very disrespectful to offer a spirit a damaged home). But of course it could still be very well used for decorational purposes.
