Vintage Mask of a Strong Minister (Topeng Keras), Bali (1301-4FBE) $125

Description

Court ministers (patih) in Bali, Indonesia are danced in mask (topeng) performances named Topeng Panjegan where a single dancer interprets 5 legendary characters wearing full face masks, cannot speak and much portray them only through gestures and body language and positions. Patih manis (literally sweet, a good natured, diplomatic minister) is often the first solo dance after a quick introduction by the gamelan percussion orchestra. The patih keras (strong and forceful minister) is often performed a bit later on. This keras type is as being brave and easy to anger, so this green mask is has wide, closed red lips (the color of anger), large pop-out eyes and a bushy moustache. The dancer uses rigorous and quick controlled movements to express strength, and the mask is deeply carved with intended exaggerated facial elements. The dance begins with a low rumble like a storm gathering energy, then subsidies and repeats itself in waves. When the dancer is calm and pauses, he shakes his outstretched fingers and quickly turns his head in staccato movements adding tension and intensity and then repeats his process of gathering energy. Dancers can select from about thirty masks to enact characters from the 6th century Hindu epics the Ramayana and the Mahabharata or from Babad Dalem, the Chronicles of Hindu-Balinese kings. Ethnic folk-art masks like this are outstanding examples of unique Balinese Hindu-cultural-and-ritual-art, and most are made from light stable pulai wood that enhances colors, is easier to carve and is crack-resistant.

Click here for the blog Indonesian Dance Masks (Topeng): Spiritually Connecting the Community