Court Mask Yogyakarta, Java, IndonesiaCa. 19th century
Wood, pigment, gildingH: 5.5 in :: 14 cm
An exquisite Javanese mask, stylized with unusual designs and highlighted by a royal forehead crest balanced on two golden nagas. The reverse is signed and inscribed as belonging to R.T. (Raden Tumenggung) Prince Djojodipoera, who is described in the literature as “an artistic genius” a Renaissance man, who stimulated, created, choreographed and wrote extensively on Javanese dance.This mask embodies Tembem, half of a comic duo (along with Pentul) who act as commentators and comical servants. They are also actually cosmic beings who advise the righteous characters in traditional Panji stories.
Price on request
