Mask
Coastal Ramu River, Madang province, Papua New Guinea Early 20th century Provenance: Philip Goldman, London

A  unique mask from the Coastal Ramu River region, this object exhibits distinct avian attributes; a hooked/pierced nosed, and small mouth. A mix of avian and humanistic features on Ramu region masks suggests this object's spiritual importance. Engraved decoration between the nose and chin make this a unique example. Small holes on the mask's periphery would have been used to secure a larger woven headdress. Masks such as this were worn by initiated men during ritual performances.

H: 15 in.
IN 03-14-15/ SOLD