Hibiscus Wood Mask from Indonesia, "Janger Dancer"

The florid headdress in this mask distinguishes the personification of a Janger dancer. Performed in Bali since the 1920's, the Janger was considered a "dance craze" performed by groups of 12 men and 12 women. The dance begins with everybody sitting down, and as the women sway from side to side, the men perform aggressive movements while chanting kecak. Eventually they all stand up to dance in couples. Nyoman Naranata celebrates the legendary dance with a vivid mask that is hand-carved from hibiscus wood.

Hibiscus wood exhibits colors ranging from white to light gray, dark gray or even black heartwood. This natural occurrence can rarely be replicated, making each carving exceptionally unique. Please expect slight differences in wood grain color and distribution patterns. Theme and artistic quality remain the same.