The Mei masks of the Iatmul people of New Guinea are not face masks, but are tied to a conical structure made of plaited fibers which covers the head and shoulders of a dancer. While similar in shape, the style and decoration of the masks vary by village throughout the Sepik River region. Mei masks usually appear in male and female pairs representing the ancestral sisters and brothers of a village clan. Each clan owns a pair, and when not in use, they are kept in the clan elder's house. The masks are also used in battle to frighten enemies into submission, and to impress young boys during initiation ceremonies.

Good condition with traces of wear and tear.

Provenance: former private German collection






Object:

Mei Mask



Ethnic group:

Iatmul



Country:

Sepik, Papua New Guinea



Material:

Wood



Period:

Mid 20th century



Sold with stand:

No



Dimensions:

67x14x8 cm



Weight:

1200 gram



Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $200.00

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