Description:

Papua New Guinea, East Sepik, West Yangoru area, Abelam culture, ca. 1920s CE. A large, anthropomorphic woven mask - with round eyes surrounded by distinctive concentric ovoid forms (openwork between), a curved, protruding nose centered between them, and an openwork crest/crown flanked by two projecting plug-like forms above. The woven fibers are painted in shades of red, brown, and creamy white. The Abelam and neighboring peoples of the Sepik region of northeast New Guinea have traditionally created various types of basketry masks. This type is known as baba tagwa, a helmet-like form intended to be worn over the head. For the Abelam, baba tagwa masks have associations with the male initiation cycle. Men dressed in intricate costumes comprised of leaves wear these masks. For some ceremonies, figures donning baba tagwa masks act as guards. Wielding intimidating bamboo stalks or other weapons, they drive off uninitiated men, women, and children, who are not allowed to witness the secret initiation rites. Size: 10" W x 18.75" H (25.4 cm x 47.6 cm)

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

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#147565

  • Condition: Minor pigment loss and fraying to some fibers on surface. One ear plug is a bit loose, but still attached. Otherwise excellent.

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November 14, 2019 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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