Orissa
Wood, extensively polychromed
An attractive dancing mask depicting the rakshasa Vibhishana. Painted in a brilliant blue, Vibhishana wears an elaborate turbaned crown decorated with geometric and floral patterns motifs and two large hooped earrings which dangle from his ears. Distinctive features include a prominent Shaivite tilaka, large piercing eyes and a joyous smile. The vibrant red twirling moustache and matching beard stands out on his blue skinned face. Ovular slits have been cut out beneath the eyes of Vibhishana to help the dancer navigate while wearing the mask.
Vibhishana, Ravana’s younger brother, was a rare good-hearted Rakshasa; he was beautiful, pious and assiduous in his religious observances. When Brahma granted him a boon, he asked never to swerve from the path of righteousness and to be illumined by divine knowledge. Vibhishana joined Rama in his campaign against Ravana, and helped Rama’s army to cross the ocean into Lanka. When invisible Rakshasas infiltrated Rama’s camp, Vibhishana caused them to become visible, and Rama’s monkey soldiers destroyed them. After Rama’s final victory over Ravana, the loyal Vibhishana was made king of Lanka.
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 stylized 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.
Size(cms): 43(H) x 34(W) x 19(D), 51(H with stand)
Size(inches): 17(H) x 13.5(W) x 7.5(D), 20(H with stand)
