Flame Mask

Sumatra

Sumatra

This mask comes from Sumatra in Indonesia. These masks provide a connection to gods, ancestors and spirits. The wood facial masks, transform a performer into well-known characters from plays in the tribes culture. These masks are believed to be embedded with protective powers. The masks are used in the performance of sacred dance and theatre, enactments of ancient Hindu epics and were instrumental in defining the human drama, as worn by performers in old world theatre. Its name derives from its shape, resembling a real life wicker flame.

With the increase of tourists visiting the Indonesian islands over the years and the interest they show in the crafted art of these areas, craftsmen started to reproduce traditional and tribal masks to be sold to tourists in markets. Some of these masks are exact replicas of the originals but others have the added interpretation of the craftsmen. Still they are a picture of the skills of the craftsmen in these areas. This mask is one as such.

Wood

Height : 19″ (48.3cm)