Bali & Java

Cululuk, a witch from Bali

Q:  My parents bought this mask in Bali in 1968 or so, they told me it was Hanuman, but I don’t think so.  Can you recognize the character?  Initially he had long black hair.  You can see it had real animal hide and we used to hang it by the string on its forehead.  Heather, 1405

A:  Cululuk is one of several witches in Calonarang, a very popular dance drama still performed on the island nation of Bali, Indonesia. Your piece is slightly above average in craftsmanship. It is in new condition– so it could be used by a dance company from a small town or sold to tourists. It has a moveable jaw that can be operated by the dancer.  B+

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