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MESUREMENTS: (not including beard)  11" x 8.3" x  3.5"  (cm 28 x 21 x 9 ).     weight: 330 g

This is a Dayak mask representing a monkey. The mask is highly expressive, featuring a prominent chin, a slightly open mouth with visible teeth, particularly pronounced canines, and large eye sockets. It is evident that the mask was actively worn, as indicated by the attached stick at the back, which the wearer would bite to secure it firmly during use. The mask exhibits a patina with light encrustations, a clear sign of prolonged use, and the biting marks on the rear stick further confirm its history of wear.

The Dayak people are indigenous tribes inhabiting the deep rainforests of Borneo, with a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. In Dayak culture, the monkey holds significant symbolic value. It is often associated with cleverness, agility, and adaptability, qualities highly admired in their society. Monkeys are believed to bridge the spiritual and earthly realms, serving as intermediaries between humans and the supernatural.

Masks like the one representing a monkey play a crucial role in Dayak rituals, dances, and ceremonies. These masks not only serve as artistic expressions but also carry deep spiritual meanings. When worn, they enable the wearer to embody the attributes of the monkey, facilitating communication with the spirit world. The visible signs of wear and the bite-marked stick on the mask in question indicate its active role in past ceremonies, emphasizing its importance as a conduit for spiritual connection within the Dayak culture.

A truly authentic museum-quality piece in good overall condition.