Tibetan Horse Mask/Yak Takyab | Cinnabar Totemic Talisman

An antique Tibetan takyab horse mask dating to the late 19th–early 20th century (circa 1880–1920), hand-knotted in wool on a vivid cinnabar-red ground with a central totemic floral-flame motif and scattered talismanic elements. The original suspension cord remains intact. Presented in a natural cotton border contour, elegantly framed in white — a lively and spiritually charged example of Tibetan ceremonial equestrian weaving.

This antique Tibetan horse mask (takyab) radiates a lively, almost animated energy — its compact form distilled to a striking interplay of colour and symbol. Designed to sit upon the horse's or yak's forehead, it would have moved rhythmically with the animal, catching light and attention in equal measure.

The composition unfolds across a vivid cinnabar-red ground, where a central, almost totemic motif rises with quiet authority. Its form — part floral, part flame-like — suggests both growth and protection, a visual language deeply rooted in Tibetan belief systems. Surrounding it, small, scattered elements — like seeds or talismans — punctuate the field, adding a sense of vibration and life.

The drawing is instinctive rather than precise. Lines bend, forms breathe, and symmetry is gently suggested rather than enforced. This lends the piece a deeply human quality — one senses the weaver working not from a rigid plan, but from memory and feeling.

The softly padded border contour, wrapped in pale cotton, frames the mask like a protective halo. Above, the original suspension cord remains intact — a quiet reminder of its functional life, once tied and worn in motion across the high plateau.

In essence, this is not merely an ornament, but a small protective presence — imbued with the role of safeguarding both horse and rider.

Age: Late 19th century to early 20th century (circa 1880–1920)
Condition: Structurally intact, retaining original shape and proportions.
Colours (6): Cinnabar red — coral ground / deep indigo blue / blue-green — teal / soft apricot — faded peach / ivory / subtle charcoal
Presentation: Natural cotton border contour. Framed in white.
Technical: Warp — hand-spun wool / Weft — wool / Pile — wool
Dimensions: Approx. 20–24 cm (H) x 18–22 cm (W) / approx. 7.9–9.4 in (H) x 7.1–8.7 in (W)