Javanese Topeng Dance Mask – Lakshmana

Hand carved wood and decorated with paint topeng dance mask. Dance masks were held in place by the dancer by gripping between the teeth a textile strip attached to the reverse of the mask.

This mask is the Lakshmana, who is the loyal younger brother of Rama in the Hindu epic Ramayana and the human incarnation of Shesha, the lord of serpents. Carved and painted from a single piece of wood, this figure features a modest, jewel-toned crown that signifies his royal lineage above a fringe of black curly hair. His smooth, pink, heart-shaped face is defined by delicate black lines tracing his narrow eyes and cheekbones, tapering down to a gentle smile with subtle laughter lines. In traditional Indonesian theatre, these highly refined, elegant facial features instantly signal to the audience that Lakshmana is a noble and honorable character.

Topeng is a dramatic form of Indonesian dance in which one or more mask-wearing, ornately costumed performers interpret traditional narratives concerning fabled kings, heroes and myths, accompanied by gamelan or other traditional music instruments. Topeng dance is said to have been introduced to Java by one of the nine wali sanga (Islamic saints) who introduced Islam to the Indonesian archipelago during the sixteenth century, along the north coast of Java.

Dimensions: 3.75″ x 7″ x 8″

Vintage piece. Sell in used, pre-owned condition. Vintage and antique items by nature have variable amounts of wear, imperfections, signs of use, age and time. Perfectly imperfect. Condition shown as in pictures. Kindly contact us if you need more info. or detail pictures.