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  • Bali & Java

    Masks are a big deal in Bali

    September 22, 2013 / No Comments

    Q: This mask has been in my family for many years and none of my living family knows anything about its origin. It is the size of an adult head. The materials appear to be on the front a light coloured wood, inside there is a wicker effect and black material. The jaw of the mask moves and appears to have steel pins and a reed effect on the inside. The hair appears to be made of animal hair.  Anne, 552 A: The Topeng, or traditional dance dramas, are very popular in Bali, and your mask depicts one of many Bondres (comic characters) used in the performances.

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    Bob Ibold

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  • Bali & Java

    Scary animal mask from rural Indonesia

    August 29, 2013 / 5 Comments

    Q: Could you tell me about the value and origin of this mask?  Susan, 539 A: I decided to show the rear view and side view because you can clearly see how these animal masks are constructed.

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    Bob Ibold

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  • Bali & Java

    Black characters show up everywhere

    August 27, 2013 / 2 Comments

    Q: I recently bough this thinking it was African , but it may not be. It looks pretty old though and worn, not a tourist piece. Do you have an idea where it may be from. I collect African things so don’t intend to keep it.  Chris, 538 A: I can understand your attraction to this handsome piece.

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    Bob Ibold

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  • Bali & Java

    This mask was purchased in 1989 in Bali

    July 17, 2013 / 2 Comments

    Q: This mask was purchased in 1989 in Bali by myself. How could I best sell it?  Kerri, 521 A:  The big and very colorful Rangda dance mask is quite popular in the West as wall art.

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    Bob Ibold

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    Classic dance mask from Java

    May 23, 2017

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    January 10, 2014

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Quiz - Test Your Mask Knowledge

Click Here Take The Quiz

Mystery Mask Value Code

A - high value*

B - collectible*

C - decorative art

D - low value

* A and B do not always imply higher dollar value. Most masks get a C or D, however I usually don't post them.

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