Description:

Oceania, Melanesia, Vanuatu, Banks Islands, ca. 1940s or earlier CE. A rare mask/headdress constructed from a bamboo framework covered with bark cloth and featuring a large ovoid panel, all painted with natural pigments in bold geometric and organic motifs of black, white, and red ochre. The conical, basket-like headpiece retains leaves attached to the rim. Masks and headdresses of this type were sacred objects, traditionally created in great secrecy for ritual dances. Following their public appearance in these ceremonies, they were typically destroyed or burned. Size: 27" L x 11" W (68.6 cm x 27.9 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; Purchased from Taylor Dale (TAD) Gallery in April 2001; ex-Scott Dugglesby collection Dallas, Texas; collected by a German missionary in the 1940's.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#196372

  • Condition: Some tears and fraying to bark cloth along the frame. Losses and tears to attached leaf fronds. Good condition.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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