1994.254 Ceremonial mask (biola)

The eyeholes of most masks from Timor are hollow. Here, the use of two shells of different colors creates a disturbing contrast, heightening the intensity of the primal stare. Animal skin and hair often frame Timor masks, and the tiny nails protruding from the perimeter of this piece may once have secured a beard or similar attachment. Once associated with head hunting, this mask was probably stored in the loft of a traditional house as a powerful family heirloom.

Roslyn A. Walker, Label text, 2013.

1994: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased from Pacific American Corp. (Steven G. Alpert), Dallas, Texas

Notes:

The main source for this provenance is the copy of the invoice from Steven G. Alpert to the Dallas Museum of Art dated October 25, 1994, in the Collections Records object file (1994.254).

Apply to objects where number equals 1994.254