Teal Cheriyal Mask – Hand-painted Telangana Folk Art

Peacock feathers have long supplied Indian craft traditions with a particular blue-green that doesn't quite match either colour on its own, and it's that same teal that colours this pair of Cheriyal masks from the village of Cheriyal, near Warangal in Telangana. The craft behind it is roughly 400 years old, practised by the Nakashi community and awarded a Geographical Indication tag in 2010 for being unique to this one part of the country.

The base of each mask is hand-built from tamarind seed paste and sawdust over a wooden core, dried across several days depending on the season, then given a white lime undercoat before an artist paints the features freehand using natural colours — no printing, no stencils, just a steady brush and years of practised hand. It's the same process that produced the masks once carried by wandering storytellers, held aloft to punctuate a scene during a village performance of a religious ballad or piece of local folklore, a tradition kept alive today by only a handful of families in Cheriyal.

Teal's slightly cooler, festive edge makes this pair a natural fit for a verandah, a living room that leans toward jewel tones, or as part of a Diwali or Onam-season refresh of a gallery wall.

Material: Tamarind seed powder, sawdust, cotton cloth, natural colours

Dimensions: 5 inches x 5 inches x 3 inches (pair)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is teal a traditional shade in Cheriyal art?
The historic palette leans more toward red, yellow, and ochre tones, so teal is a more contemporary variation — though it's applied with the same natural-pigment, hand-painted technique used across the tradition.

What's included in this listing?
A pair of masks — one male, one female — each individually hand-painted with its own facial detailing and headgear.

How do I hang the masks?
Each has a loop at the back for direct wall mounting; no additional frame is needed.

How do I take care of it?
Wipe with a soft, dry cloth occasionally. Keep away from water, humidity, and direct sunlight to preserve the colour and the base material.

Can I use this as festive décor and then keep it up year-round?
Yes, it works equally well as a seasonal festive accent or as permanent wall décor.

Is it a good gift option?
Yes, particularly for someone who enjoys jewel-toned interiors or is looking for a distinctive piece for festive gifting.