Hudoq mask, Modang Dayak, East Kalimantan

Hudoq masks, shaped like hornbills, wild boars, or dragons, are worn during agricultural rituals to promote a bountiful rice harvest. The dancers, dressed in red fabric adorned with grass strips, represent benevolent rice spirits from the heavenly realm of Apo Lagaan.

These spirits descend to bless the rice seeds with fertility, symbolically breathing their essence into the seeds to ensure a plentiful harvest. Offerings are placed in the fields to appease malevolent spirits, who are then driven away.

In an impressive ritual, masked performers frighten both onlookers and women in planting huts. This act not only startles people but also banishes lingering evil spirits.

This striking and fearsome mask played a vital role in this tradition.

Provenance: Belgian private collection.

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