Description:

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, East Sepik, Abelam, early 20th century CE. A hand-painted and woven vegetal fiber mask of vibrant colors and abstract amplified features. The large circular eyes are separated by a long nasal ridge with a loop at the end, perhaps for hanging ornamentation. The top of the head is crowned with a fan-like headdress and a knob coiffure placed behind. 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 competitive and a status symbol amongst Abelam men, and this mask was used for festivals where the yam - a cherished and vital crop - was celebrated. Size: 11" W x 15.25" H (27.9 cm x 38.7 cm)

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#157393

  • Condition: Minor areas where fiber has unraveled and pulled away from weaving. Areas of chipping paint. Otherwise very nice with rich pigments and color.

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November 19, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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