WARSA, I WAYAN (1945 - )

“Barong Dance (Tebesaya Peliatan, Ubud)” (c.1980)
Oil on canvas
Cm
Signed lower right
*private collection, Sydney
 
Warsa is a respected Indonesian Painter. He is recognised for his intricate, colourful depictions of legong and barong dances, as well as market scenes and temple rituals. He is also the father of accomplished painter I Wayan Ariana. The Barong is a lion-like creature; king of the spirits in Indonesian mythology. The dance celebrates the eternal battle and conquering of the Barong's spiritual enemy, Rangda, the demon queen.