**Originally Listed At $400**

Oceania, Papua New Guinea, ca. early 20th century CE. A fascinating mask made from a cow skull, using the top and part of the Zygomatic arches to form a human face. Enveloped in reddish brown paint, the intriguing visage presents a prominent nose with wide nostrils, a straight mouth, and two shell-inlay eyes under a heavy brow, all flanked by a pair of petite ears. Black-hued striations decorate the face, likely representing face paint, and human hair and a row of cowrie shells adorn the top, creating a headband and hair for the haunting vizard. An annular drill hole at the top of the mask allows it to be suspended for display. There is a long tradition of mask-making from skulls, especially among the highland people of Papua New Guinea. Size: 5.25" W x 7.75" H (13.3 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid 1980s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most Antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

#160789

Intact and excellent with impressive remaining hair and pigments.