Abelam Papua New Guinea Woven Yam Mask. East Sepik Province, Mid 20th Century. Fiber and natural pigments. 1lb The Abelam cultivate two distinct categories of yams—a small variety used as ordinary food and long yams, massive tubers that can be as much as twelve feet long. A man’s social status is determined largely by his success in growing long yams. Each man has a permanent exchange partner to whom he ceremonially presents his largest yams. The “heads” of the enormous tubers are adorned with specially made yam masks such as this one, which are made exclusively for yams and are never worn by humans.
Measurements: 26.5 inches x 17.5 inches.
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Condition commensurate with age, use. As found patina and wear.