The island of Timor gave rise to a distinctive tradition (or traditions) of masks whose precise origins and significance remain uncertain. There is not a dedicated litterature, the little information I have got it comes from a patient work of interviews to elderly of different Belu and Atoni villages (see my interview at the shaman of Billa village): according to them, masks portray both male and female ancestors, they were worn by warriors to scare enemies during the fights, were worn by men during a variety of ceremonies, like harvest ceremonies and ceremonies for the celebrations of victory in war. They were also put on the altar during the sacrifices; in some areas masks were put inside the huts to protect the household from evil spirits. They were worn to hide ones face during raids to other villages or even neighbors in time of hunger.

Timor Mask (B396c)

Timor Mask (B396c)

$0.00

Cm 32 x 18 x 12

Massive and finely carved Timor mask from the Timor Tengah Selatan district, with typical oval shape, thick, decorated with black horse hair as mustaches and beard. Fine dark patina from use. This kind of masks are still involved nowadays in the ceremony for the corn harvest. Last pictures show how this kind of masksare kept inside the holy house. They are attached at the central pole by a hanger, often together with masks or other important relics.

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