DESCRIPTION/EXPERTISE
Mei, Mai or Mwai Masks are used to draw almighty and helpful spirits. They mostly form party of a dance costume called tumbuan and used for the male initiation ceremony. This particular mask is made from soft wood and decorated with kauri shells in the eye sockets. Paint to color the mask is made from earth pigments and charcoal. Old Iatmul mask like this one tend to have a more serious demeanor and finer workmanship especially on the chin protrusion.

MEDIUM
Soft wood, kauri shells and natural pigments

SIZE
54,5cm high – 8,5cm wide – 7,5cm depth

PROVENANCE
private Belgian collection

PRICE
€ 2.500

Expertly mounted
All dimensions are without the mounting