Tibetan Horse Mask/Yak Takyab | Cinnabar Lotus Botanical

An antique Tibetan horse mask (takyab), hand-knotted in wool on a vibrant cinnabar-red ground, featuring a central lotus-peony floral axis with symmetrical rosettes and a stylised offering vessel below. Dating to the late 19th–early 20th century (circa 1880–1920), this piece retains its original padded ivory cotton border and is presented elegantly framed in white — a rare and intimate example of Tibetan ceremonial equestrian weaving.

This antique Tibetan horse mask presents a beautifully balanced and almost lyrical composition, where ornament and symbolism unfold with quiet clarity.

Set upon a vibrant cinnabar-red ground, the design is structured around a central floral axis. A stylised blossom — reminiscent of a lotus or peony — anchors the upper register, flanked symmetrically by smaller rosette forms that lend the composition a gentle rhythm. From this central motif emerges a vertical arrangement of stems and leaves, rendered with a natural, almost botanical grace.

Below, a more geometric element — suggestive of a stylised offering vessel or jewel form — grounds the composition, creating a visual dialogue between the organic and the structured. This interplay is particularly compelling: the upper field breathes, expands, and blossoms, while the lower portion gathers and contains.

The padded cotton border, softly undulating and framing the piece with sculptural presence, adds both protection and a tactile softness. It reinforces the mask's function as an object in motion — designed to accompany the horse, to absorb impact, and to endure.

Unlike more spontaneous examples, this piece reveals a clearer compositional intention. Yet it never loses that essential Tibetan quality — where precision and intuition coexist, and where the hand of the maker remains visible in every line.

Age: Late 19th century to early 20th century (circa 1880–1920)
Condition: Structurally sound, with original shape and intact cotton border.
Colours (5): Cinnabar red — coral / deep indigo blue / soft sky blue — moss green — olive tones / warm beige — parchment / subtle brown — charcoal detailing
Presentation: Padded ivory cotton contour. Elegantly framed in white.
Technical: Warp — hand-spun wool / Weft — wool / Pile — wool
Dimensions: 24 cm x 26 cm (9.4 in x 10.2 in)