Portrait of a spirits head
Papua New Guinea, Abelam
not available anymore
Size
H: 44 cm
H: 17.3 inch
Description
wood, blotched dark brown patina, small remains of polychrome painting, an oval facial plane enclosed by a disc-shaped beard and diadem-like headdress, plug-like projection with tapering appendix, slightly dam., cracks, probably repainted;
this mask-like carving depicts a clan spirit. It used to be attached to the front of cult houses.