Human world
Wooden dance mask Zhal ba representing Mahakala (Sanskrit) Nagpo Chempo (Tibetan).
Bhutan, 19th century
Accession Number 53.87.194
Monks wear these wooden masks during cham, the religious dances performed in monastic courtyards on festival days. The mask represents Mahakala, whose role the monk assumes when dancing to drive out the enemies of Buddhism. In the gon-khang the presence of Mahakala provides important protection.