Old Dayak Embaloh Hand Held Healing Mask

(Stand is for photography purpose and not included in this listing)

Description

This remarkable handheld healing mask is an expressive example of traditional Embaloh Dayak Art, distinguished by its striking human features and unusual sculptural composition. Carved from Belian wood (Borneo ironwood), the mask possesses a deeply aged, dark patina that accentuates its powerful and enigmatic appearance.

The face features pronounced brows, deeply recessed circular eye openings, prominent ears and an elaborately carved mouth. Particularly captivating is the depiction of a lizard or gecko held between the figure’s teeth, creating a dramatic visual narrative that distinguishes this piece from more conventional Dayak masks. The carefully rendered reptile appears to be firmly gripped within the mouth, suggesting an intentional symbolic relationship between the human figure and the natural world.

At the crown, a small sculpted human figure emerges above the head, adding another layer of visual and symbolic complexity. The elongated lower projection serves as an integrated handgrip, indicating its intended use as a handheld ritual object.

Within the spiritual traditions of the Embaloh Dayak, objects of this nature are associated with indigenous healing practices and the ritual activities of traditional specialists. The unusual combination of human and animal imagery may reflect beliefs concerning spiritual forces, protection and the relationship between the human and supernatural realms.