Shamans Dance Mask
Iban Dayak, Borneo
Early 20th c
Provenance: Field collected by Steven Alpert in Sarawak, in the late 1970’s. David Pusack collection, Hong Kong
This wooden shaman’s mask from the Iban Dayak people in Borneo is a striking example of the artistry and cultural traditions of this unique community. Dating back to the early 20th century, this mask is finely carved and displays a wonderful differentiation in color, with deeply curved brows combined with large eyes and nose giving off a commanding expression. Both ears are pierced and adorned with old red cloth that is strung through them, terminating with hand-forged brass earrings.
The mask was created for use in shamanic rituals, which are central to the spiritual life of the Iban Dayak people. The shaman is seen as a mediator between the human world and the spirit world, and is believed to possess the ability to communicate with and manipulate supernatural forces. In the context of shamanic rituals, the mask is used to symbolize the shaman’s power and to help him or her access the spirit world.
One of the most striking aesthetic qualities of this mask is the way in which its carved lines flow easily together, creating a cohesive, almost portrait-like appearance. This speaks to the skill and artistry of the mask maker, who was able to create a work of art that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The differentiation in color adds to the mask’s visual impact, and helps to draw attention to its finely carved features.
Shamans Dance Mask
Iban Dayak, Borneo
Early 20th c
Provenance: Field collected by Steven Alpert in Sarawak, in the late 1970’s. David Pusack collection, Hong Kong
This wooden shaman’s mask from the Iban Dayak people in Borneo is a striking example of the artistry and cultural traditions of this unique community. Dating back to the early 20th century, this mask is finely carved and displays a wonderful differentiation in color, with deeply curved brows combined with large eyes and nose giving off a commanding expression. Both ears are pierced and adorned with old red cloth that is strung through them, terminating with hand-forged brass earrings.
The mask was created for use in shamanic rituals, which are central to the spiritual life of the Iban Dayak people. The shaman is seen as a mediator between the human world and the spirit world, and is believed to possess the ability to communicate with and manipulate supernatural forces. In the context of shamanic rituals, the mask is used to symbolize the shaman’s power and to help him or her access the spirit world.
One of the most striking aesthetic qualities of this mask is the way in which its carved lines flow easily together, creating a cohesive, almost portrait-like appearance. This speaks to the skill and artistry of the mask maker, who was able to create a work of art that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The differentiation in color adds to the mask’s visual impact, and helps to draw attention to its finely carved features.