Bhairava Head

A finely crafted Bhairava head, also know as a ‘Demon Scarer’. The head has a rounded tubular extension at its base, which would fit over a pole and could be carried above the heads of the populace during festivals and processions. The visage is with bulging eyes and cheeks and with a large gaping mouth with teeth and fangs.

Such monster figures and monster masks depict a demonic form of Bhairava, one of the avatars of Shiva. Protective deities such as viras (deified heroes),  kshetrapalas (guardians), bhutas (spirits of various deities), including some daivas (devils) were expected to provide protection against invaders, thieves, the elements- fire , storms, floods, drought, disease etc. Since the earth was populated by gods and their counterparts in the nether world, demons, evil spirits and ghosts, prayers, offerings and sacrifices were made to both groups to propitiate them.