Dayak Bidayuh Ritual Dance Mask

Dayak Bidayuh Ritual Dance Mask Description

This striking ritual dance mask originates from the Bidayuh people of West Borneo, known for their rich cultural traditions and spiritual artistry. Carved from lightweight wood, the mask features an elongated, teardrop-shaped face with bold, exaggerated features meant to evoke awe and energy during ceremonial performances.

The eyes are deeply set and prominently outlined with black and red pigment, giving an intense, watchful gaze. The thick, arched eyebrows and long, protruding nose emphasize a fierce expression. The open mouth, painted in red and white with visible carved teeth, conveys an animated or perhaps menacing presence—often used to portray spirit characters or ancestral figures in ritualistic storytelling.

The mask’s inner surface shows signs of hand carving, with tool marks clearly visible, reinforcing its handcrafted authenticity. Two eye slits are cut for visibility during performances. This type of mask would traditionally be worn during festivals or ceremonies related to harvest, healing, or rites of passage, serving both aesthetic and spiritual functions.

Overall, this mask exemplifies the bold, expressive style of Bidayuh ritual art, where dramatic forms and colors bring spiritual narratives to life through dance and ritual.

H – 28 x 17 x 11 cm / 474 g

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