China, Large Lion/Tiger mask, Qing period, 18th century

This spectacular articulate mask of large size represents the lion or the tiger.It was used in the Nuo theater. Nuo means in Chinese “expelling demons”.
It was held by a transversal bar on the back and has articulated jaws that were moved and clap by the dancer.
The Wang mark on the front means king and represents the lion but also the tiger who naturally has this mark on his head.
Only men were authorized to make and use nuo masks. During ceremonies, men wearing a mask were considered to be possessed by a god or by a divine spirit.
The lion/tiger mask was used in plays but also in processional rituals.
Height with stand : 57cm 40x32cm
China, Qing period, 18th century