Repairing Sacred Balinese Masks

Barong masks are often sold as souvenirs, but true ritual Barong are created using a particular type of wood with special ceremonies marking key points in the process. In this video, scholar I Wayan Dibia is at the home of mask carver I Wayan Tanguhh and describes the process of repairing a Barong mask.
The Barong is a protective deity that can take on a variety of animal forms--lions, tigers, and boars are some of the more common images--and each one is addressed using a respectful title such as Great God or Great Lord. Many villages, especially in southern Bali, have their own Barong figure. The Barong mask is kept in a shrine within a temple and brought out for use.
The Bali: Art, Ritual Performance exhibition is on view at the Asian Art Museum from February 25--September 11, 2011. For more information: www.asianart.org/Bali.htm

[@curseoftheegglady]

Very thoughtful work

[@Chuloloc]

Amazing.