Wayang Topeng Mask In Polychrome Wood – Indonesia, End Of 19th / Beginning Of 20th Century

Bali or Java, Indonesia, end of the 19th century / beginning of the 20th century.
Wayang Topeng mask made in polychrome wood.
Representation of a dark red face, with mouth, eyes, eyebrows and hair painted in black. As an accessory, a brown crown decorated with crosses.
A large part of the red patina is peeling, some accidents.

Dimensions:
Height without the base: 16 cm
Height with the base: 25 cm
Width: 13 cm
Depth: c. 8.5 cm
Size of the base: 8 x 8 cm

Coming from Indonesia, Wayang Topeng refers to the theater staging choreographies of masked dancers. During his whole life, the dancer puts some effort into making one with his mask, by training himself to become the character he plays.

Generally speaking, red masks represent valiant and courageous characters, and dark colors are the sign of belonging to a cast with important powers. This mask, created in a red color and dark details, is surely the representation of a significant character in Wayang Topeng.