Mid Century Kolam Mask from Sri Lanka. Excellent condition polychrome painted mask hand carved from wood with cloth lips and beard. The mouth is hinged allowing it to be moved up and down mimicking speech. The collector that acquired this mask claimed it represented a policeman but it really doesnt look like the face of a policeman. Likely a mask used in plays (Kolam Mask). Used in conventional works of theatre, Kolam performances are in fact a variety of plays that are employed not only to entertain but also to re-enact various mythologies and folk beliefs of villagers. Kolam mask manufacturers are few and far between in this day and age although the Ariyapala Wijesuriya clan still produces masks and performs Kolam dance rituals to this day. Mask measures over 12" in height from the top of the head to the bottom of the beard. Excellent condition with the minor faults that come with age. The collection this mask is from was acquired midcentury so the mask in this lot is at least that old but may be much older. There are many different masks that have been made in Sri Lanka for generations and every mask maker seemed to have their own versions that follow along the stories lines of their beliefs. The name we gave to this mask is our best guess but it could fall under any of the following types of masks made in Sri Lanka - Kolam, Maha Kola, Makara Mask, Sanni, Garuda or Raksha Mask.

Authentic