elegant sculpture

A young dancer is crowned with frangipani blossoms, her elaborate headdress part of the Legong dance costume. Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family sculpts this extraordinary mask from crocodile wood and paints it by hand with vivid detail. The Legong probably originated in the 19th century as royal entertainment, and it is said that the prince of Sukwati fell ill and had a vivid dream in which two maidens danced to gamelan music. When he recovered, he arranged for such dances to be performed in reality.

Celebrating the royalty of Indonesia, Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family creates this depiction of a Balinese woman. Carved from suar wood, she wears an ornate headdress that is painted by hand with white frangipani flowers and gold-tone accents. This wall sculpture is named Tapel Kraton, meaning "royal woman" in Balinese.

The artisan carries on the extraordinary art work of her late father, Nyoman Subrata.

Using the minimalist contours of ancient art, Wayan Agus Satya Putra carves a mask of elegant symmetry. He works in native albesia wood, giving the sculpture a vintage finish to emulate a prized antique.

Elegant and serious, a black and brown Chihuahua observes his surroundings with guarded reserve. Known as a good companion dog, Chihuahua's are courageous, extremely lively, proud, and enterprising; they give and demand affection. Nengah Sudarsana carves an admirable albesia wood mask taking care to recreate and capture the dog's unique essence as he hand-paints the piece.

Diligently hand-carved of crocodile wood with intricate detail, this stunning mask from Indonesia is designed by Wayan Rendah. He draws inspiration from traditional Janger dancers as he creates this decor accessory. Characterized by ornate costumes, elegant movements, and music punctuated by shouts, Janger is a popular dance in Bali that is typically performed by youth.