Mask, One of a Pair

Late 19th–early 20th century

Not on view

One of a pair of male and female masks from the Bidayuh (Land Dayak) people of northern Borneo. These masks are carved from a lightweight and light-colored wood which has received an undercoat of light brown paint to imitate skin tone. The fronts of the masks have been overpainted in white while close-cropped hair and eyebrows are rendered in a strong, contrasting black. Large round holes pierce right through the mask at the center of the eyes so that the performer can orient himself. The overall shape of the eyes, along with subtle details such as the natural color of the lips, convey a sense of naturalism. Of course these life-like qualities would have been further enhanced when the mask was animated and danced as part of its fuller ensemble.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Mask, One of a Pair
Date: Late 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Malaysia, Borneo, Sarawak
Culture: Bidayuh (Land Dayak) people
Medium: Wood, paint
Dimensions: H. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Fred and Rita Richman, 2013
Object Number: 2013.1137.14.2
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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