Mask

ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-masks

Date20th Century

Collection SiteEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

Made AtEast Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

MediumWood, fiber and tassels

Dimensions20 1/2 × 4 3/4 × 5 in. (52.1 × 12.1 × 12.7 cm)

Credit LineAnonymous Gift

Object number2017.10.31

DescriptionThis dark wooden mask was obtained in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea and dates back to the 20th century. The mask is carved into an oblong human face and features exaggerated features. The forehead of the mask is incised with three holes and fiber tassels tethered through. A twisted tassel is tied through the nostrils and wraps around the back of the mask; appearing much like an ornamentation piece. The mask features an elongated chin with a protruding tip. Given the unique style of this particular mask it is difficult to determine the area this piece originates from. Mask from the Sepik area are generally carved and named to represent a spirit, mythical figure or ancestor. When the mask is worn by a wearer--such as a performer or young boy embarking his initiation rite--the named entity is said to "slip into" the mask and evoke its powers.

On View

Not on view