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Barong Naga mask
Ancient Barong Naga or Barong-dragon mask featuring a highly stylized dragon head with a large-toothed articulated jaw.
The motifs are carved into the wood with a gouge, then painted.
The articulation system is very simple, with a handle articulating each upper and lower element. When the mouth is open, the inside of the palate is also painted.
Old patina and wear marks, some paint missing.
This mask, used for the traditional Barong dance, is called "caplokan", from the Indonesian verb "caplok" meaning to snatch. It can be "kesurupan", i.e. possessed by a spirit.
The dragon-snake Naga symbolizes the powers of good and evil.
REGION: Island of Java, Indonesia
MATERIAL: Polychrome wood, iron, horsehair
TIME: 20th century
LENGTH: approx. 54 cm
HEIGHT (jaw closed): 17 cm
PROVENANCE: former Alain Dusch collection
(Soclé)
inventory number: AS050
Ref: KAQJFZG06E