Mask of a spiritual being
Sepik, Papua-Neuguinea
wood, reddish brown patina, traces of camwood powder and black paint, of narrow, elongated form, a vaulted forehead separated from the dominating eye zone by a half-circular deepened line, the eyes consisting of small holes with a drop shaped framing with concentric grooves, a beak-like tapering nose with raised middle ridge and pierced septum below, a small semi-circular mouth at the tip of the chin, pierced in the chin area, slightly dam., cracks, minor missing parts at the back of the rim; in the Lower Sepik Area, it is generally accepted that long pointed noses represent spiritual beings while short naturalistic ones portray true ancestors.This mask could represent a mythical spirit called «tangbwal». These spirits were called forth to regulate the food supply in preparation for ceremonial feasts.
H: 61 cm

Provenance:
Private Collection, France

Lit.: Meyer, Anthony J.P., Ozeanische Kunst, Vol. I, Köln 1995, p. 182