Orissa
Wood, polychromed
This delicately painted dancing mask of Jambavan. Jambavan was the King of the bears and an ally of Lord Rama in the battle of Lanka His wears an elaborate painted crown and a pairs of ear ornaments. A prominent vaishnavite naman adorns his forehead and his elongated curly moustache runs along his snout. The mask would have been used during folk performances of the Ramalila in Orissa.
Shahi Jatras (royal processions) of Orissa present different episodes from the Ramayana during the spring season, usually lasting for for one week. Actors, carrying huge wooden masks and gorgeous costumes, walk on the streets with stylised gait and mime with the accompaniment of loud drumming. The Desia Nata of Koraput, Orissa, also uses masks for representing gods, goddesses, animals, birds and demons. These themes are also taken from Ramayana.
Mask Size (cms): 54.6(H) x 45.7(W) x 26(D)
Mask Size (inches): 21.5(H) x 18(W) x 10(D)
