Mid-Century Lembu Protective Spirit Mask This striking hand-carved Balinese guardian mask draws inspiration from Barong Lembu, the sacred bull manifestation of Barong—one of several protective animal forms found in Balinese Hindu tradition. Unlike malevolent spirits, Barong figures stand as guardians of villages, temples, and ceremonial spaces, confronting chaos rather than embodying it. Whether appearing as a lion, boar, tiger, elephant, dog, or sacred bull (Lembu), Barong represents protection rather than destruction.
Details
Origin: Bali, Indonesia
Date: Likely mid-20th century
Material: Hand-carved wood with polychrome paint
Features: Deep relief carving; ready for wall display
Dimensions: Approximately 10" W × 9" H
Condition: Good vintage condition with expected age-related wear including scattered paint and gilding loss and edge wear. Please review photographs carefully.
