Important Notice

Tulunadu (South Canara), 19th Century CE
Copper alloy
Height: 8 in (20.3 cm)
Width: 10.5 in (26.7 cm)
Depth: 9 in (22.9 cm)

REGISTERED ANTIQUITY-NON-EXPORTABLE


This Panjurli, or boar mask, finds its roots in ancient Tulu lore. One version holds that in ancient Tulu Nadu, hoards of boars would invade fields and destroy crops when they were ready for harvest. The locals hence decided to worship a spirit in the form of a boar. Another version tells of the story of a piglet that Goddess Parvati was fond of, but was killed by Lord Shiva when it destroyed his garden. Shiva then brought it back to life, on Parvati’s request, but sent it to earth as a guardian of truth and righteousness. This spirit would protect those who made offerings to it, and punish those who did not respect it.

The mask in the current lot embodies the customs and beliefs associated with the boar spirit. Keeping with the purpose of bhuta masks, the elongated snout, sharp fangs, arched eyebrows, wide eyes and cobra wreath render it an important part of rituals in coastal Karnataka.

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