Tibetan Horse Mask/Yak Takyab | Sunlit Coral Offering Vessel

An antique Tibetan horse or yak mask (takyab) from the late 19th–early 20th century (circa 1880–1910), hand-knotted in wool using the Tibetan cut-loop technique on a radiant cinnabar and coral field. The central motif — a vase-and-flower form echoing East Turkestan traditions filtered through Tibetan spontaneity — rises with quiet authority. Retaining its cream cotton full outline border, presented elegantly framed in white. Approximate dimensions: 21–25 cm (H) x 19–23 cm (W).

This antique Tibetan horse or yak mask presents a radiant and animated composition, where colour and form converge in a striking yet deeply intuitive design.

The field, glowing in a rich spectrum of cinnabar and softened coral tones, appears almost sunlit — its subtle tonal variations lending depth and movement to the surface. At the centre, a vertically aligned motif rises with quiet authority: a stylised form that can be read both as a blossoming floral element and, more evocatively, as a vessel from which life emerges.

This dual reading is particularly compelling. The base suggests a contained, grounded form — reminiscent of a vase or offering vessel — while above it, the motif expands outward into petal- or flame-like extensions. Such imagery gently recalls the vase-and-flower compositions seen in East Turkestan and Central Asian weavings, yet here it is rendered with unmistakable Tibetan spontaneity — less formal, more felt than prescribed.

Flanking elements — small, almost talismanic motifs — punctuate the field with rhythmic accents, their placement lending balance without imposing rigidity. The overall composition breathes; it unfolds organically rather than adhering to strict symmetry.

The pale cotton edging frames the piece softly, enhancing its sculptural presence while reinforcing its original function. The reverse, with its hand-stitched backing and visible wear, speaks quietly of use — of movement, of contact, of a life lived in the open landscape.

Age: Late 19th century to early 20th century (circa 1880–1910)
Condition: Overall well preserved and structurally intact, retaining original outline and edging — wear contributing to its atmospheric beauty and authenticity.
Colours (7): Cinnabar red — coral / burnt orange — apricot / deep indigo blue / soft sky blue accents / ivory — natural wool / pale beige cotton edging / subtle charcoal — brown
Dimensions: Approx. 21–25 cm (H) x 19–23 cm (W) / approx. 8.3–9.8 in (H) x 7.5–9.1 in (W)
Presentation: Retaining cream cotton full outline border and back. Elegantly framed in white.
Technical: Warp — hand-spun wool, ivory to light beige / Weft — wool, loosely beaten / Pile — wool, Tibetan cut-loop technique