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Curator: The Blue Trunk
Artist: Unknown
Medium: Bronze
Size: 12 w x 2.5 d x 18 h in / 30.4 w x 6.3 d x 45.7 h cm
Weight: 13 kgs
This mid-20th century Theyyam breast and torso plate is a rare ritual object from North Kerala, traditionally worn as part of the elaborate costume of a Theyyam performer. Crafted in bronze, the plate was used during Theyyam performances associated with Bhadrakali, a revered manifestation of the goddess in Kerala.
Theyyam is a ritual performance tradition of North Kerala, particularly associated with the districts of Kannur and Kasaragod. The transformation of the performer through elaborate costume, body painting, ornaments and ritual objects is central to the tradition, with each element contributing to the visual and ceremonial presence of the deity being embodied.
This bronze breast and torso plate forms part of that ceremonial costume. Its sculptural construction and aged surface reflect the craftsmanship associated with ritual objects made for repeated use during annual performances. As a surviving piece of Theyyam material culture, it offers a rare insight into the objects used within one of Kerala's distinctive ritual traditions.
With its substantial scale, sculptural presence and direct connection to Theyyam ritual practice, the plate is particularly suited to collections focused on Indian ritual art, Kerala heritage, ethnographic objects and cultural craftsmanship.
Care instructions: Wipe the piece with a soft, dry cloth. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, dampness, heat or cold.
The Blue Trunk was born out of the passion to travel, and collect pieces that symbolise the rich cultural traditions and history of places travelled to. They scour towns and villages, big and small, across India’s vast landscape, to bring forth an exquisite curation of traditional and authentic products that are part of the lives they discover. Their penchant for hand crafted artifacts, both vintage and new, is what makes their collection such a fine mix.