Mask - Javanese - Indonesia - Monkey Character – Carved...

A Javanese monkey-character mask thrusts its wine-red muzzle forward beneath a painted crown, giving the carved face a vivid, almost defiant presence. Fine grooves carry the black moustache into curling side whiskers, while white teeth and pointed fangs sharpen the expression. Blue and cream scrolls, green floral details and gold-coloured accents enliven the crown. The crowned monkey character belongs to the visual language of Java’s Ramayana dance drama. On the hollowed reverse, a carved Praja Cihna emblem of the Yogyakarta sultanate, raised Javanese lettering and a worn leather mouth tab add interest beyond the face. One mask is included, without accessories. Paint loss and small chips affect the muzzle, teeth, crown and edges; the reverse has rubbing and fine surface checks. I am not a specialist, and the precise character and earlier history remain unconfirmed.

Estimate:£5.08

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