Masks in traditional Asian theatre (Southeast Asia)

In the bewildering variety of masks and mask cultures to be found in both maritime and mainland Southeast Asia, it is possible to find some commonalities. Throughout the region, traditions of masked performance historically have been intertwined with ritual and spirituality, whether in court or village settings. In places such as Bali, even those masks that are used for secular tourist performances may be sacred or sanctified objects requiring special handling and ritual offerings and it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between performance designed to honour deities and performance designed primarily for mortal entertainment. Most masks used for performance are made either of carved and painted wood or papier-mâché and are worn with elaborate costumes and headdresses.