Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik, Abelam, early 20th century CE. A hand-painted and woven vegetal fiber mask of hemispherical form with abstract amplified features. The intriguing vizard features a pair of sizable, x-shaped eyes in the form of several openwork layers around black, target-motif pupils and a lengthy nasal ridge that divides the visage vertically, all crowned by a conical coiffure or headdress. The red, white, and black pigmentation was added for vibrant accenting of features and perhaps to mimic the coloration of yams. Growing the largest yam was a competitive measure of status amongst Abelam men, and this mask was used for festivals where the yam - a cherished and vital crop - was celebrated. Size: 17.25" in diameter x 12.75" H (43.8 cm x 32.4 cm)

Provenance: private Tucson, Arizona, USA collection, acquired between 1950 and 1985

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#148016

  • Condition: Some losses to reeds on periphery. Light fraying of fiber in areas and some bending to shape, but form is still clear. Otherwise, very nice with rich earthen deposits and impressive remaining pigments.

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March 4, 2021 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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