Thai Khon Mask with stand - Hanuman, Son of the Wind, hand-crafted & vintage

Description

Vintage Thai Khon Mask with stand
This mask is of Hanuman, Son of the Wind, a monkey with great magical powers.
measures approximately: 15" H (on stand) | off stand: 8" H x 11" W x 10" D
About Hanuman
by Marty Lou Robertson,
The Khon Masks
Hanuman is by far the most important monkey. In the Ramakien, Hanuman is Rama's most trusted general. His mask has many features which indicate he is a monkey with very special powers. The mask is highlighted in green and pink. He wears only a coronet so red and gold markings are evident on the top of his head. Hanuman's gaping mouth displays his canine teeth which are usually just features of the demons. His gaping mouth also makes visible the jewel in the roof of his mouth. The jewel is a symbol of his special powers. Hanuman is the son of the God of Wind and can thus fly through the air. Also, when Hanuman yawns, he exhales suns, moons, and stars. This is the magical power by which people recognize Hanuman. The jewel is sometimes referred to as a "glass canine" thus, Hanuman has five canines. Another symbol of Hanuman's special power is the jewel between his eyebrows. This symbol appears on statues of the Buddha and represents inner energy. Possibly it means the same with regards to Hanuman.
We have two masks that came from a Chicago estate. The previous owners purchased them in Thailand in the 1970s.