Charlies set off a Mask stampede (least w/ Me & Whit !). This one's 7 1/2" long by 6" wide.Just wanted opinions re age,origin & danced or not (that's hair on the mustache & eyebrows). Bali,Java,India ??? Please ignore the dust-that's all mine.
Huh! At least I had the decency to dust my masks...Perhaps they were a bit more in need than your fastidious examples, 'tho... I sure like the moveable jaw...an' Big Lips...on yours, bosco!
that's possible...and the back is carved and smoothed to be wearable..... if it was I can't say.......but it could have been !! that black has faded below the mouth !
It looks like a type of 'penasar' mask from Bali. Penasars are the narrators of Balinese drama/dance, and they usually wear half-masks so they can project their voice more. I guess a movable jaw would allow for the same, because movement of the narrator's chin would open the lower jaw. Penasar masks always have hair attached, and usually have a reddish colour like this one. If you google 'topeng penasar' you will find those half-masks. Topeng means mask in Indonesian. Looks like some of my stuff.
Thanks for the help will google 'penasar' mask from Bali.I call my 'dust bunnies' patina. *Just found this:The Mask is used while performing the world famous traditional Wayang Topeng Dance in Bali- Indonesia.Most indeed are 'half masks',a few have the moveable lower jaw attached w/ leather thongs.Will have to find out who this character represents-Thanks All !
Thanks Komo,love the description-"Vintage Ugly Wooden Mask Wall Decoration Mouth Opens Real Hair". Sounds like they bought it from 'Famous Monsters Magazine'.
