Attractive Carved and Polychrome Mask. Southeast Asia, circa 1900

Amazing hand-carved wooden mask from the South of Asia, fully painted and with a stunning expressiveness. These masks are usually part of traditional theatre performances, and are especially remarkable for the fine artisanal work they show. The mask that we can see in the images depicts a demons face with a threatening expression and is performed with a great attention to detail. It was made at the beginning of the 20th century so it is a fascinating antique, as well as an exotic and decorative piece. The mask is carved from an only solid wooden block. The back of the piece has been completely hollowed so it can be fitted to the users face. The adzes marks are clearly visible: the work reveals the hand of an expert artisan. The masks face shows off a wonderful carving work in the facial features of the scary character: the bulging and intense eyes, the open mouth with frightening fangs, the curved nose, the deformed ears and the hat. This hat is a sort of tiara decorated with small smiling skulls. The polychrome work that breathes life into the carvings is also quite remarkable: it is made with the temple-over-stucco technique and remains in quite good condition. The faces skin and the eyes are black, with its surface decorated with red, golden, yellow and green details. It is a bright display of color that turns this marvelous Asian mask into a piece that will catch everyones eye in the most special room. Beautiful and expressive, this antique Asian mask will create a point of focus in any corner of the room. Measurements: Height: 18.5 in / 47 cm. Width: 11.8 in / 30 cm.