Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Java or Bali, ca. early 20th century CE. A hand-carved and hand-painted wooden mask depicting a character from the Indonesian dance drama known as Topeng, a theatrical performance in which one or more dancers don masks and present ancient tales, usually about ancient or mythical heroes or kings. This example features an expressive face with a golden brown complexion, wide open eyes delineated above eye slits for the wearer, raised brows with a yellow curvilinear mark between, a wide nose, and a thick mustache above closed red lips. Note, the brows and mustache are decorated with real hair. A wonderful example! Size: 5.375" W x 6.625" H (13.7 cm x 16.8 cm)

The Topeng dances originated in the 17th century and have traditionally been most prevalent in Java and Bali. This said, the dances are also performed in other Indonesian islands. The word "topeng" translates as mask in Indonesian. Topeng performances begin with a sequence of dancing, non-speaking masked characters that may or may not be directly related to the story being told. The use of masks is believed to have its root in the cult of the ancestors which regarded dancers as sacred interpreters of the gods.

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois USA, acquired prior to 1970.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#122146

Surface wear with minor fissures commensurate with age.