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.

WOODEN MASK WITH TEETH - NICE GLOSSY ENCRUSTED PATINA - WEST TIMOR INDONESIA

Timor wooden tribal mask teeth glossy patina oceanic art indonesia

WOODEN MASK WITH TEETH - NICE GLOSSY ENCRUSTED PATINA - WEST TIMOR INDONESIA

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Old Atoni cultural mask carved from hard wood, collected in the remote South Central Timor district, featuring a rather convex shape, toothed mouth, and a deep, glossy, encrusted patina. The simple and defined features imbue the mask with the typical strength and expressiveness characteristic of Timorese art.

In Timor, masks like these are traditionally used in ceremonial rituals, storytelling, and cultural performances, serving as powerful symbols with spiritual significance.

MEASUREMENTS: inches 10.6" x 5.9" x 3.5" (cm 27 x 15 x 9)

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