The fierce protector in Cheriyal mask by Sai Kiran

This is a unique Cheriyal mask by artist Sai Kiran. Cheriyal masks belong to the storytelling traditions of Telangana, where they are used in folk performances to bring mythic and dramatic characters to life. Made from layers of cloth and natural paste, these masks are designed with bold colors, enlarged features and strong expressions so they can be recognized even from afar during performances.

This mask has an intense presence. The wide circular eyes, flared nostrils, thick moustache and long fangs create a powerful expression of ferocity. The extended tongue, curved horns and pointed ears enhance its dramatic character, while the golden detailing in the ear ornaments and around the eyes adds a decorative richness. The slightly weathered surface gives it the feeling of a mask that has lived through many performances and stories. Its wide, unflinching eyes and exaggerated features echo the kolli kannu of Drishti paintings, where seeing and being seen becomes a quiet act of protection.

Like the guardian faces once painted on Tamil Nadu’s walls, this mask turns bold imagery into a watchful presence that marks space and absorbs unseen harm.

One can imagine this character as a fierce village guardian in a folk talk, meant to frighten away evil spirits with its terrifying face. Yet, during a performance, the exaggerated expressions and animated movements of the performer would slowly turn fear into fascination, especially for children watching from the crowd, who would be both scared and amused at the same time.

Each of our artworks are hand painted by master artists across India. We provide a digital authentication certificate with this artwork signed by the artist which will be sent over email after 3-4 days of delivery of the artwork.

View Sample Here

The sizes mentioned are excluding the borders of the artwork. Frames shown are for visual representation only and are not included with the artwork.

Customisation

Most artworks can be customised in terms of colours, size and elements to fit your requirements.

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Framing Services

No, we currently sell artworks unframed (unless explicitly mentioned otherwise) and do not provide framing services.

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Domestic Orders

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• We offer free shipping on orders above ₹1999 for all artworks, except Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri.
• A flat shipping rate of ₹499 applies to orders below ₹1999.

Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri

Shipping is charged on a per-kilogram basis, due to the delicate and bulky nature of these items.

International Orders

• A flat shipping charge of ₹4,000 applies to international artwork orders.
• Customs duties, taxes, or import charges in the buyer’s country are not included and must be borne by the buyer.
• Shipping rates for Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri artworks will be calculated based on weight.

Additonal Shipping Charges

Extra charges may be applicable for both domestic and international deliveries in the following cases:

• If the article requires additional packaging (such as a wooden crate) to ensure safe shipping due to its delicate nature.
• Custom-framed artworks.
• Artworks where shorter side exceeds 36 inches or Decor items with any side over 35 inches.
• If you request express shipping. Contact support to check availability.
• The order contains more than two different product types.

You can proceed with your purchase, and our team will contact you to confirm any applicable additional shipping charges before processing your order. Alternatively, reach out to us on WhatsApp or email, and we'll assist you in completing your purchase with the final pricing.

Returns and Replacements

We offer replacements or repairs if your artwork arrives damaged or has a quality issue. As each artwork is handcrafted, we do not accept returns or refunds for orders received in the expected condition.

Delivery Timeline

Ready To Ship/In Stock artworks are shipped in 3-4 days. We only accept return requests for Ready to Ship/In stock artworks placed within a week from date of delivery. However, no returns can be accepted for international deliveries.

Once your order is placed, our team stays in constant communication with the artist to track the progress and ensure the quality of your order. You will receive regular updates from us throughout this process.

All MeMeraki artworks are hand-painted. In rare occasions, artist may face delays due to weather, health, prior commitments or force majeure. Our team will reach out to you with revised timelines in case of such delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience in such situations.

All artworks on the website are hand painted from scratch by our master artists. This makes every artwork absolutely unique and the actual colour and overall artwork may vary slightly from the artwork image posted here.