Balinese mask of Bhoma in polychrome carved wood, 20th century.

Important Balinese mask carved and hand-painted in wood representing Bhoma, a protective figure from Hindu-Balinese sacred architecture. In the tradition of Bali and Java, Bhoma appears as a vegetal and protective manifestation of Kala, the guardian of sacred thresholds. His monumental face with bulging eyes, a third eye on the forehead, and an open mouth filled with fangs symbolically served to ward off malevolent forces. The green coloration, rare and particularly expressive, refers to the telluric and vegetal powers associated with Bhoma. The sculpted eyebrow arches in leafy scrolls directly recall the great protective faces adorning the portals and lintels of Balinese temples. This piece seems inspired by sacred architectural decorations while retaining the theatricality characteristic of masks from Balinese ritual theatre.