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Hand painted Muchilot Theyyam Head Accent image 0
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Muchilot Theyyam Head – Hand-painted Kerala Ritual Art

Rs. 6,940.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Description

The face here is entirely given over to pattern — dense black swirls and dotted linework covering the forehead and cheeks in the elaborate style associated with Muchilottu Bhagavathi, one of the most revered figures in Kerala's Theyyam tradition. A silver ekir, the long, protruding ornament worn over the mouth to suggest fierce, bared teeth, and a fixed, wide-eyed gaze complete a face built to command attention rather than blend into a room.

Theyyam is a centuries-old ritual art form from North Malabar, Kerala, where performers embody deities through elaborate face painting and costume during temple festivals. Muchilottu Bhagavathi is among the most celebrated of these figures, associated with wisdom and justice in local tradition. This piece is hand-carved from solid wood and hand-painted with the same intricate linework performers wear during the actual ritual, worked entirely by brush across the face and down onto the base.

Mounted on its stand, it works as a genuine conversation piece for a console, study, or gallery wall shelf. It's a considered gift for anyone drawn to South Indian ritual art, or for a collector building out a set of Theyyam heads piece by piece.

Material: Solid Wood, hand-carved and hand-painted.

Dimension: 10 inches x 6 inches x 6 inches (head only).
                     Including base: 14 inches x 6 inches x 6 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Theyyam?

Theyyam is a ritual art form from North Malabar, Kerala, believed to date back over 2,000 years, in which performers embody deities through elaborate face painting, costume, and dance during temple festivals.

Who does this piece represent?

This head depicts Muchilottu Bhagavathi, one of the most celebrated and revered figures in the Theyyam tradition, associated with wisdom and justice.

What is the ornament worn over the mouth called?

It is known as an ekir, a long, protruding silver or brass ornament traditionally worn over the mouth in Theyyam to suggest fierce, bared teeth.

Is the facial detailing hand-painted?

Yes, every line and dot is hand-painted by our studio artisans, mirroring the intricate face art applied to real Theyyam performers.

Can I request a distressed finish?

Yes, a distressed look can be requested. Please add this note in the notes to seller section while placing your order.

How do I care for the hand-painted finish?

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth and keep away from water and prolonged direct sunlight.

Time to Dispatch

Time of Dispatch: 7-10 working days from placing of order.

Instruction for Care

Wipe using a clean soft cloth for dusting. Keep away from water and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Brand Philosophy

When you order from EthniiChic, you receive more than just a product—you bring home a piece of India’s cultural heritage.

Each creation is handcrafted with care, hand-painted with authentic traditional art forms, and finished to perfection for lasting quality.

Expect vibrant storytelling through design, eco-conscious craftsmanship, and timely, well-packaged delivery that ensures your order arrives safe and ready to adorn your space / yourself.

DISCLAIMER

At EthniiChic, we celebrate the artistry of handmade products, each lovingly crafted by skilled artisans.

Due to this unique handmade nature, minor variations and subtle surface textures are natural and should be embraced as hallmarks of authentic charm and individuality, rather than defects.

Please note that the actual colors of our products may vary slightly depending on your device's screen resolution and any accessories shown in product images are for styling purposes only and are not included with your purchase.

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