Gable mask ·  Papua New Guinea, Iatmul · ID: 3037653

Description

wood, white and red pigment, brown patina, flat facial features, dominated by large eyes with shell inlay, slightly dam., abrasion of paint, small traces of insect caused damage, cracks;
wooden masks such as this example were attached to the walls of dwelling and cult houses of the Iatmul, and would be used to protect the inhabitants from disaster.