Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, ca. early 20th century CE. A fascinating mask made from a cow skull, using the top and part of the Zygomatic arches to form a human face. Enveloped in reddish brown paint, the intriguing visage presents a prominent nose with wide nostrils, a straight mouth, and two shell-inlay eyes under a heavy brow, all flanked by a pair of petite ears. Black-hued striations decorate the face, likely representing face paint, and human hair and a row of cowrie shells adorn the top, creating a headband and hair for the haunting vizard. An annular drill hole at the top of the mask allows it to be suspended for display. There is a long tradition of mask-making from skulls, especially among the highland people of Papua New Guinea. Size: 5.25" W x 7.75" H (13.3 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid 1980s

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#160789

  • Condition: Intact and excellent with impressive remaining hair and pigments.

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April 1, 2021 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$2,000 $4,999 $250
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$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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