 Q: Would like to know origin of this mask. Very light weight and paint looks original. Bought, as usual, at a thrift shop. Thinking Java? Mickey, 1285
A: It is from Java, but not old. It is easy to see that this decorative wall-hanging was quickly carved, painted with some nice colors, and then antiqued to make it look old. Antiquing is easy to do with stained varnish and a rag. On this piece it is obvious, but some mask makers are very skilled and can fool you. Mickey bought it at a thrift store for very little money, but some tourists pay a lot more thinking the mask is authentic. I would advise people to always assume they’re purchasing a fake and pay accordingly. C- |
Koryak mask from Siberia
Ancient Greek theater mask
