2 Topeng Raja Dalem
(Kings)

Two vintage topeng masks of Raja Dalem, circa 1987, (20 x 14 cm) both carved in Pule wood.

The traditional white Dalem mask on the left was purchased from a shop that specialized in classical dance attire in Sukawati.  It would have been made for local classical dancers to buy, and not for the tourist market.  Carved in Pule wood and painted with natural pigments, it features Mother-of-Pearl shell teeth, a metal and glass bead third eye, and monkey fur eyebrows and mustache, the latter having lost most of its fur since this photo was taken.  It could easily be colored to match, or replaced.

The identical mask on the right is of similar high quality by an unknown carver, and features Mother-of-Pearl teeth.  It was commissioned from the carver by the gifted artist Pande Made Taban of Peliatan, who imaginatively decorated it with floral motifs in acrylic paint and artificial gold leaf to sell to collectors in his art shop in the Ubud tourist  market.  His name and address is printed on the back.  We bought many decorative pieces from him for our art and craft business, but commissioned this special piece for ourselves.  A fabulous decorative mask in excellent condition, and very collectable.

The price is for both Dalem masks.