Dalem is the term for an ideal mask of a Hindu King (topeng dalem) who wears a full mask precluding speech, and dancers perform in silence using body language and gestures to depict the traits of the mask danced. Low-born peasants, servants or attendants wearing half-masks explain and humorously comment on the story being presented. The Balinese mask of a king is normally an idealized high born, handsome and refined noble with prominent cheek bones usually painted with white, the color of purity, who expresses his clarity of purpose, poise and confidence by staring directly at the audience.
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This Dalem is a traditional folk-art and ethnic mask (topeng) from Bali made from pulai wood of a Hindu king (Dalem). He stares directly at the viewer while his high cheeks help express his poise and the ability to remain cool in a crisis. This is a fine example of a gifted carver able to…
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…
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