Gamelan is the traditional Indonesian percussion orchestra composed of a set of musical instruments including hand-forged metal xylophones, gongs, chimes, and cymbals along with drums, string instruments and flutes. The xylophone keys are set within hand carved colorfully painted stands with symbolic imagery varying by location, types of xylophones used, and local traditions. Most have images of dragons (naga) who are benevolent creatures often linked to the sea, mountains, and forests and/or a Bhoma. Bhoma (“born from the earth”) is an ancient protective Balinese deity, offspring of the god of rain and the goddess of earth, guards Balinese temple entrances to keep evil spirits at bay. His head and face are often wrapped in a crown of flowers that appear menacing or friendly depending on the person entering the sacred space.
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There are two traditional Balinese masks of the king’s prime minister (topeng patih). Both are refined, well-bred warriors from the second caste holding a prestigious position, and, like all dance masks, they are accompanied by a gamelan. This mask is a patih keras (strong minister) which is usually red or orange symbolizing a tough, intense…
This rare folk art Rangda mask was made on the island of Lombok, Indonesia by ethnic Balinese Hindu craftsman. Primarily Muslim, a Balinese Hindu minority ruled the island from 1750-1895 and Hindu temples (pura) have been centers for Balinese activities since the 17th century. Balinese girls are encouraged to “dance with their hands” and formal…
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