Barong Naga Mask – Java Island, Indonesia

Mask of the Barong Naga
Old mask of the Barong Naga or Barong-dragon presenting a very stylized dragon's head with an articulated maxilla and large teeth. The patterns are cut into the wood using a gouge and painted. The articulation system is very simple, a handle articulating each element from the top and bottom. When the mouth is open, the inside of the palate is also painted. Old patina and marks of use, some paint losses.
This mask, used for traditional barong dance, is called “caplokan”, taken from the Indonesian verb “caplok” which means to catch. He can be “kesurupan”, that is to say possessed by a spirit. The Naga snake dragon symbolizes the powers of good and evil.
REGION: Island of Java, Indonesia
MATERIAL: Polychrome wood, iron, horse hair
PERIOD: 20th century
LENGTH: approximately 54 cm
HEIGHT (closed jaw): 17 cm
PROVENANCE: former Alain Dusch collection

(Soclé)
inventory number: AS050