Hudoq masks are used by communities of the culturally related Dayak groups of the Bahau, Kenyah, and Apokayan of East Kalimantan; the markings identify the community of origin. The Hudoq represent gods who have taken the shape of fantastic animals in order not to terrify the men and women that they grace with their presence. They are summoned for the celebration following the planting of the rice fields and their presence is understood to help the rice grow. The ceremonies that feature them are very festive occassions following an intense period of work and the Hudoq are somewhat randy figures of fun, as well as representations of the divine. They serve as vehicles for feeling connected to the forces of nature.

The Hudoq come in various animal and semi-human forms, and are related to totem ancestors of various groups within the hierarchical societies of the Dayak. The bird Hudoq (hornbill and parrot) have the highest status, followed by the reptilian Huduq (dragon, snake, and crocodile), with the lowest rank being taken by mammals (pig and monkey). The Hudoq presented here were all made and used in the 20th century, some very recently and others some 75 years ago, in various sites of East Kalimantan.