Topéng

Abstract

Originating in the Malay language, the grammatical root "Tup" denotes the idea or act of placing one object over another. Two derivatives—*Topeng* in Indonesian and *Tapel* in Balinese—refer to the wooden carving actors use to cover their faces; that is, "the double" superimposed upon their own features: a mask. However, the word *Topeng* also designates a performance art form involving dance, acting, song, and mime—all performed with masks—that originated in Indonesia and is still practiced today on the islands of Java, Bali, and Madura. Each of these islands has its own *Topeng* mask theater tradition, characterized by distinct stylistic features