Description:

**Originally Listed At $300**

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, Sepik River region, ca. early 20th century CE. A fascinating mask made from turtle shell and the convex side covered with clay paste molded into an anthropomorphic face then inlaid with cowrie shells, and a woven wicker border is attached to periphery via drilled holes. Masks of this type are made by men for initiation ceremonies, The clay and basketry work are painted black and white with curvilinear lines and flowing geometric motifs. Elements of the mask are symbolic: white is warfare, shells are wealth and prosperity. The turtle shell - especially the spine make it impossible to wear as a face mask, and generally these were displayed in houses to ensure luck and prosperity to hunting or raiding parties. Size: 10.75" L x 8.5" W (27.3 cm x 21.6 cm)

Several states and countries prohibit the importation of materials from endangered species, including tortoise shell / sea turtle shell. Please check your country’s laws before bidding on this piece. We guarantee that the piece was made prior to 1973

Provenance: ex-private Hawaii, USA collection

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.

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#151987

  • Condition: Stable fissures to clay face and chips to peripheries. Missing cowrie shell. Some fading and chipping to pigments on clay and wicker weaving. Overall good condition.

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November 3, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000