Choijin Lama Monastery: Mask of Hayagriva

MONGOLIA, Ulaanbaatar

This mask is worn during the Cham dance and represents the defeat of Mara and the elimination of obstacles to enlightenment. Hayagriva is regarded as a manifestation of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.
The bright red mask is made of paper mache and has gilt decorations. Hayagriva has a golden crown with five black skulls. In the center above the skulls, there is a horse head colored in green to symbolize balance and harmony. Above the crown, Hayagriva’s red hair rises up in powerful flames. The thick eyebrows are in the form of spiral shapes and there are three round and bulging eyes. The mouth is open to reveal ferocious teeth, giving the mask a wrathful appearance.