DIMENSIONS: cm 23 x 19 x 9 DESCRIPTION: An animist protective mask from the interior highlands of West Timor, crafted from fossilized coral stone. In Timorese animist culture, masks like these hold profound significance in safeguarding the household hearth and warding off malevolent spirits. The mask, rather large in size, features the distinct texture of coral rock (brain Symphyllia), along with a dark gray patina and some remaining traces of moss, due to exposure outdoors beside the traditional hut.