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Wood and stone carving have traditionally been featured largely in temple and palace architecture. Immaculately carved demons and mythical beings decorate pillars, door panels, lintels and window shutters with the object of protecting the buildings from evil intruders. Scenes of legendary figures places within a floral decor, set a more pleasant and educational tone. With the arrival of European influences, wood carving started to develop a long more innovative and commercial lines. Today, whole villages specialize in producing certain styles of work. The village of Sumampan, near Ubud, is known for its carvings of female figures, Buddhas, characters from Hindu epics, the traditional topeng (mask) and Wayang Wong masks. Visiting Sari Rejeki Wood Carver & Art Gallery

The history of tribal Bali masks is indeed an interesting one. For starters, these masks come in a number of different forms, having been used for thousands of years. Although masks have evolved over the years, most of them are the primitive masks used for tribal ceremonies.  Typically, these masks are made from wood. However, depending on the specific region where they come from, they are made from a number of materials. The goal of the Bali tribal mask is to scare off evil spirits, sickness, or to prevent natural disasters such as famine, drought, and floods.  Throughout Indonesia, you will find all types of masks, some of which are worn for funerals, some for initiation rites, and some for exorcism rituals. 

Barong is a lion-like creature and character in the mythology of Bali. He is the king of the spirits, leader of the hosts of good, and enemy of Rangda, the demon queen and mother of all spirit guarders in the mythological traditions of Bali. The battle between Barong and Rangda is featured in Barong dance to represent the eternal battle between good and evil. In Balinese mythology, the good spirit is identified as Banas Pati Raja. Banas Pati Raja is the fourth "brother" or spirit child that accompanies a child throughout their life, which is a similar concept to guardian angels. Banas Pati Raja is the spirit which animates Barong. A protector spirit, he is often represented as a lion. The origins of the Barong are far a back in time and quite uncertain. Its origins could be from animist'cults, before Hinduism appeared, when villagers still believed in the supernatural protective power of animals.

Barong mask Rangda mask

The turtle, surrounded by two snakes, looking like dragons, supports the earth on its back. They are carved supporting the Lord Vishnu riding Garuda, a large mythical bird, who is the mount (vahana) of the Lord Vishnu.

Garuda became the national emblem of Indonesia, called Garuda Pancasila

Lord Vishnu riding Garuda, on the turtle supporting the earth on its back

Text : Internet

Pictures: Sanda Foişoreanu

Copyright: All the images belong to their authors

Presentation: Sanda Foişoreanu

www.slideshare.net/michaelasanda

Sound: Dengung Bali - Ada Ada Dogen