Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Central Java, ca. early 20th century CE. A carved wood Indonesian mask depicting a character from the Indonesian dance drama known as Topeng, a wondrous performance in which one or more dancers don masks and present ancient tales, usually about ancient or mythical heroes or kings. This example is particularly striking for its stunning teal blue complexion and grand crown, finely incised and hand painted with copious amounts of gold, green, and white pigments. Beyond this are its bulging red eyes with elegantly arched eyelids above and finely painted sinuous decorations below, a wide hooked nose, and protruding parted red lips framing a toothy grin. The Topeng dances originated in the 17th century and have traditionally been most prevalent in Java and Bali. This said, the dance is 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. A strong example! Size: 5.375" W x 7.25" H (13.7 cm x 18.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Nikotovich collection acquired before 1980

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#113145

  • Condition: Near choice. Only minor surface wear.

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September 27, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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