Description: I purchased this hand carved wood mask during a village stop during a cruise down the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea circa 1996. I no longer recall exactly what village we stopped at during the cruise -- but this particular style of mask is typical of the Ramu/Keram/Guam River regions. I am not an expert -- but from what I have researched, I believe this to be a flute mask, also sometimes called a longhouse mask. I don't know what kind of wood this is carved from. There are earthen tone pigments used to highlight facial details. Papua New Guinea flute masks were used as ornaments for sacred flutes, made from bamboo, which were important ceremonial instruments in many parts of New Guinea. During initiation and healing ceremonies, flutes are played all night long by initiated men, while others dance in circle around the musicians. This flute is about 22.5” long and about 4” wide. It has great facial details and interesting patina – and was old/used at the time I purchased it. I don’t know the original date of carving. There is what looks like a light water stain that is original piece. This was stored in a box in my garage, never displayed indoors or outdoors while I've had it. This item will be shipped via USPS ground advantage with insurance. Shipping within the continental US only. NO RETURNS.
Price: 125 USD
Location: Half Moon Bay, California
End Time: 2024-11-03T02:36:30.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Provenance: Ownership History Not Available
Era: Age uncertain
Region: Sepik River
Theme: Tribal
Region of Origin: PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Country/Region of Manufacture: Papua New Guinea
Modified Item: No
