Theyyam Mask – Hand-painted Kerala Ritual Art
Description
Theyyam is not a decorative art form in its original context — it's a living ritual practice from North Kerala, in which performers undergo transformation into deities through elaborate makeup, costume, and trance-like dance, in a tradition believed to date back over two and a half thousand years. This mask depicts Vishnumoorthy, one of the most significant of the more than 400 recognised Theyyam forms, worshipped as a manifestation of Vishnu.
Our artists have kept the colour palette and facial patterning as close as possible to the original ritual get-up — the bold red face paint, the layered crown ornamentation, the intense painted eyes designed to be seen from a distance during nighttime ritual performances. It's a genuinely large, sculptural piece, fully hand-carved and hand-painted rather than moulded or cast.
This is a 2-in-1 design: it comes with a detachable stand for table display, or can be removed from the base and hung on the wall using the fitted hook at the back. A distressed, aged finish can be requested at checkout for those who want it to look like a genuine ritual antique. Given its scale and craft intensity, it's best suited to collectors of Indian ritual and folk art, or as a striking statement piece for a serious décor project.
Material: Solid Wood, hand-carved and hand-painted
Dimensions: 17 inches x 8 inches x 3 inches
Care: Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Theyyam?
Theyyam is a ritual dance and worship tradition from North Kerala, believed to be over 2,500 years old, in which performers embody deities through elaborate costume and makeup.
Who is Vishnumoorthy?
Vishnumoorthy is one of the most important of the 400-plus recognised Theyyam forms, worshipped as a manifestation of Vishnu.
Can this be displayed on a table as well as the wall?
Yes, it comes with a detachable base for table display, or can be hung on the wall using the fitted hook.
Can I request a distressed or aged finish?
Yes, mention this in the "Notes to Seller" section at checkout.
Is this piece hand-carved?
Yes, fully hand-carved and hand-painted from solid wood.
What are the dimensions?
17 inches x 8 inches x 3 inches.
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.
Instruction for Care
Time to Dispatch
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.