Thai khon mask - Surasen, Monkey Officer

Thai khon mask

This Thai khon mask is used in performance in Thailand - a dance-based drama based on the story of the Ramakian - the Thai version of the Ramayana.

This mask is probably of Surasen, a monkey officer - one of the 'Eighteen crown' monkeys, a reincarnation of Phra Buddh and an officer in the army of Phra Rama.

The masks are built up from layers of papier mache and plaster, along with carved wood. All hand painted and decorated with gold leaf.

Please note : this mask is made for display purposes only and not for performance. It also has a backing at the rear to assist with wall mounting if required.

There are now very few traditional makers of these masks in Thailand remaining.

approx 22cm high x 28cm wide x 20cm deep.