The carving likely depicts a scene involving monkey warriors from the Barong dance, a traditional Balinese dance that dramatizes the eternal battle between good and evil. The Barong dance is a significant cultural performance in Bali, with Barong representing the forces of good and Rangda embodying evil.
In the context of the Barong dance, monkey warriors, often led by the character Hanuman (a central figure in Hindu mythology and the Ramayana epic), are depicted as allies of Barong. The dance narrates the struggle and eventual triumph of good over evil.
In Balinese culture, the Barong dance is not just entertainment but a spiritual and communal activity. It is performed during important ceremonies and festivals and is believed to protect the community from evil spirits.
Your sculpture is a beautiful representation of Balinese art, capturing the essence of the mythological and cultural narratives central to the island’s traditions. It reflects Balinese wood carvings’ dynamic and expressive nature, rooted deeply in the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Additional Details
Artist/Creator/Factory: unknown
Dimensions: Height 2134 cm, Length 21 cm, Width 10 cm
Material: Coromandel Wood, a type of Ebony also known as Calamander Wood
Year: Vintage
Origin: Bali, Indonesia
