Vintage Theyyam Breast Plate

Theyyam is a very popular ritualistic form of dance worship practised in North Kerala that has been around for centuries. The performance of Theyyam is a form of ancestor worship, and is similar to Bhuta traditions that are followed in certain districts of South Karnataka.

Theyyam is usually performed in front of the village temple and deity and is accompanied by various folk instruments. Theyyam performers wear very elaborate make-up and costumes. It exalts the beliefs of the ancient tribals who gave a lot of importance to the worship of heroes and the spirits of their ancestors. Theyyam dancers morph into Bhadrakali, a popular form of Goddess Devi worshipped in Kerala, where she is seen as the auspicious and fortunate form of Kali.

Wooden Theyyam breastplates are hand-carved out of a single block of wood with motifs of serpents and other tribal elements hand-painted on it. These are repainted once every few years during festivals. Breast plates are also exquisitely hand-etched and sculpted from brass, with fine cord necklaces and rearing snake features adorning the breasts.