Kambaramba Village, East Sepik, Papua New Guinea

An exceptionally fine old Sepik grass country mask. Carved from hard dense wood, with a very expressive face the forehead surmounted by a zoomorphic figure, most likely a clan symbol. Around the rim of the face are traces of resin which held elaborate shell inlay, which is no longer present. Cut out eyes and mouth, while the ears and septum are pierced. The holes around the rim of the mask used to secure it to the dancers costume are all square cut and show signs of extensive use, while faint traces of pigment decoration are visible. The mask appears to be stone carved with some possible re-shaping using metal tooling around the deep set brow, and nose. Collected by Geoff Carey in 1974 in Situ, however dating from a period much earlier than this. A fantastic mask, with a real presence. Circa late 19th to early 20th Century. Mounted on a steel display stand.
Ex Carey Collection, Sydney.

Height (Not including stand): 65 cm or 25.5 inches.
Price: Sold