Description: Polychrome Wooden Dance Mask of “Gurulu Raksha”, Devil Bird. The prominent ears are detachable. The face has a beak (the nostrils are where the dancer’s eyes can see out), bulging eyes and a snake located above the bird face, called Naga.

Material: The masks crafted in Sri Lanka are typically made from light balsa wood like kaduru (Strychnine tree, Strychnos nux-vomica, also known as poison nut, balsa and snakewood) which is easy to carve, durable and light.

Country of Origin: Sri Lanka

History: The Gurulu (Garuda Raksha) is the portrait of a mythical solar bird devouring a snake. Gurulu is decorated with the enemy snakes as if they were a trophy. According to Hindu and Buddhist mythology, it is said that this bird was a "vehicle" on which Hindu God Vishnu rode. The mask is said to bring protection and good luck.

Condition: The mask has signs of ageing, patina. (see photos)

Dimensions: height 37 cm x 57 cm width

Stockist: Den Haag, the Netherlands