Vintage Java Wood Topeng Mask - Elaborately Decorated

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Java/Bali, ca. early to mid 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 act out ancient tales about mythical heroes or kings. This example features an expressive face with a red complexion, wide open, bulging eyes delineated above eye slits for the wearer, raised brows with a golden yellow peaked ornament between, a wide nose, and a thick mustache above parted lips that reveal golden teeth and fangs. Adding further interest are numerous plugs of real hair above the forehead and a few emerging from the chin as well. A wonderful example! Size: 5.75" W x 7.25" H (14.6 cm x 18.4 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: private Johnson collection, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#152261
Condition Report: Missing a few hair plugs and one tooth as shown, but quite a few remain and the visage is quite striking. Tiny perforations on upper end of verso. Normal surface wear with a few scuffs as shown. Nice age patina.