Vintage Papa New Guinea Sepik River Mask

Vintage Papa New Guinea Sepik River Mask,
Believed to be an Iatmul or Mei masks (Middle Sepik Region)
Iatmul masks are from the Middle Sepik and are still made today. Old ones like this are rare and collectible. They are normally covered on the lower half with very small tightly packed nasal shells. We can see that some tightly packed shells still remain in one nostril, but over time this mask has seen some wear. It also features cones on the cheeks and it is likely that is what the eyes were originally made from. This piece would make a great conversation piece in its current condition or a wonderful restoration project.
Some Sepik masks are to wear and others for display. Some small masks are to empower “decorate” sacred flutes, the front of canoes, the HausMan, as lucky amulets and even yams. Other masks were not made to wear directly on the head but were part of a larger assemblage.
Sepik masks vary from very small Amulet masks only a Few centimeters high to over a meter tall.
In Papua New Guinea it is only men who wear masks and they must have be initiates of the cult that produces that mask. Women are not allowed to see masks or enter the hausman where masks are hidden. When worn the initiate becomes the spirit / tumbuwan the mask represents. Masks have a transformative power. Masks are still in use today in New Guinea and dance during ceremonial occasions.
The Sepik is one of the most profuse and diverse art producing regions of the world. The numerous different tribes living along the river produce magnificent wood carvings, clay pottery and other art and craft. Different areas along the Sepik produce distinct art styles so an experience curator will be visually able to distinguish individual styles. The Sepik area is well known for its sculptures, masks, shields and other artifacts. Many tribes use garamut drums in rituals; the drums are formed from long, hollowed-out tree trunks carved into the shape of various totem animals. Many ritual and household objects are made of carved wood, including canoes, paddles, house posts, male and female figures, masks, food pounders, plates, and betel mortars. Women weave twill-plaited baskets or bags of various sizes decorated with colored and raised designs.
Estate items may show wear and imperfections expected and consistent with age! Please bid accordingly, All estate items are non returnable non refundable sold as-is where-is with no warranties expressed or implied.