{"product_id":"antique-folk-art-metallic-textile-mask-ramlila-of-ramnagarvaranasiindia-c20th","title":"Rare Antique Folk Art Metallic Textile Mask Ramlila of Ramnagar(Varanasi)India C20th","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis specific style of fabric-and-embroidery \u003cspan\u003eRamlila drama mask originates from Benares (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh, India.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile many regions in India utilize carved wooden or papier-mâche masks for Ramlila folk performances, Varanasi is famous for its intricate, metallic textile masks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Varanasi Tradition: The Ramlila of Ramnagar (Varanasi) is highly revered. Crafting these masks involves a specialized community of artisans who combine sacred iconographies with centuries-old local textile skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe entire face is constructed using layers of padded cloth overlaid with gold (zari) and silver metallic brocades. It is finished with hand-stitched wire embroidery, sequin flowers, and metallic piping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe thick, curled black mustache and stylized features indicate this mask represents a human or semi-divine royal character from the Ramayana epic-most likely King Dasharatha (Lord Rama's father).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e38 x 35.5cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGood antique condition, some fraying around cut fabric edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Hannah Whyman","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57371005616501,"sku":null,"price":545.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0499\/8080\/1179\/files\/9B423072-1F19-4397-8CDD-6D0C70F7E340.jpg?v=1784567339","url":"https:\/\/hannahwhyman.co.uk\/products\/antique-folk-art-metallic-textile-mask-ramlila-of-ramnagarvaranasiindia-c20th","provider":"Hannah Whyman","version":"1.0","type":"link"}