Description: Polychrome wooden dance mask of “Mal Gurulu Raksha”. The prominent ears are detachable.

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. Recognisable by the beak, the multicoloured swirls around the head and the single snake that encircles the mouth and rises above the forehead. 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 is in great vintage conditions

Dimensions: height 33 cm x 31 cm width

Stockist: Den Haag, the Netherlands