Process
Chau masks are made from paper pulp, mud and clay and undergo many interim processes before taking the final form.
First a clay model of a mask is made and dried in direct sunlight to make it hard. It is then covered with powdered ash and layers of papers moistened with gum are pasted on this powdered mask. It is again covered with clay. On drying, clothes are pasted on it effectively. The mask is then polished.Once dried the first initial layer of earth is removed.Then the first coat of white paint is applied.
Finally, the mask is coloured and decorated with embellishments according to the characters they represent. Wool, jute, foil, bamboo sticks, plastic flowers and beads are used for ornamentation. Both the male and female members of a family are involved in mask making. Even young boys and girls are also engaged in it.
