wooden masks from Java

Two older wooden masks from Java
The Balinese perform a constant calendar of ceremonies in keeping with their Hindu traditions. One of the most famous masked dances is that of the confrontation between Rangda, the widow witch, and the Barong, who resembles a small Chinese dragon. Other performances are based on stories of the royal courts, and usually have their clown elements, just as the English Elizabethan dramas do.
/strong>A village drama frequently goes on all night with the villagers informally coming and going, eating, laughing when the comic characters make jokes at the expense of local people and enjoying the story which they have all known since childhood. Ceremonies happen all day in Bali, beginning with the twice a day offerings put out for the good and evil spirits.