This mask has been lying around the house since forever. As a child, it spooked me every time I saw it. I looked closely at its distinguishing features recently and wanted to figure out its origin and illustrate something around it.
I was surprised to find that this mask depicts Bhairav or an aspect of Shiva also known as Mahakal/Kalbhairav. It is adorned with a crown of five skulls symbolising the transformation of negative afflictions like greed, aggression, ignorance, pride and jealousy into the five wisdoms. They are hung above doors, entrances and it is said to protect homes or temples.
