Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik, Abelam, early to mid 20th century CE. A highly stylized woven vegetal fiber mask, vividly hand-painted in hues of russet, burnt sienna, cream, and ochre and adorned with bird feathers along its bottom periphery. The sizable visage features 2 protruding circular eyes under arched brows, decorated with painted concentric circles of alternating colors. A long raised nasal ridge divides the mask in half vertically, travelling from a high point at the top of the head and ending at an elongated slender nose that stretches above and beyond a gaping mouth painted with a triangular design, perhaps to represent a tongue. Size: 24" L x 13" W x 15" H (61 cm x 33 cm x 38.1 cm)
The black, white, and red painted designs not only add to the mask's celebratory nature, but also mimic the colors of a cherished crop within Abelam society, the yam. In Papua New Guinea, yams can grow up to 12 feet long and are an important status symbol. Masks like this were traditionally used during a ceremony in which men dress up their yams as men, using fruits, flowers, leaves, and masks, such as this one. The man with the largest yam at the festival was regarded as having the most power.
Provenance: private Tucson, Arizona, USA collection, acquired between 1950 and 1985
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#148648
Condition
Thin metal wire tied to back for suspension/display. Liberal remains of feathers and pigmentation. Minute losses to fibers that are exceedingly difficult to see. Overall, excellent with normal wear commensurate with age and/or use.