This mask is one of a set of five animals known as "The Five Dignitaries." They are known as the symbols of authentic presence. The snow lion symbolizes vibrant freshness. It's energy is uplifting and youthful energy. The snow lion represents the air element. These masks are carved in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. The wood is carefully chosen from a type of wood called roshing. Roshing is not easily found and carvers must trek into wilderness areas to find it. After the seasoning process, the carving is begun. Roshing is highly valued because of its ability to withstand cracking during the carving process. This is important because the masks are completely hollowed out from the inside so that all that remains of the mask is a shell. This is a slow and painstaking process. Each mask is then hand painted in detail. H 6" x W 6" x D 5"