Woven Head Mask,''baba''

Abelam people 

Prince Alexander Mountainns, PNG

These are dance masks, used by male dancers, whose body is covered with a long grass skirt. When the dancer moves, his body and skirt sway, so the effect is other-worldly. But the dancer is not benign; he carried a stick or cane that he can whip onlookers with if they come too close - so people watching also fear this dancer.

The mask is woven of cane, in a conical shape, and with a large nose, or beak, that represents a bird ancestor. The weaving is very well done - tight and fine - with good pigment colours. This cassowary feather headdress is in very good condition.

(STAND NOT INCLUDED)

Size: 32 cm (length)

         21 cm (width)

         33 cm (depth)

Weight: 654 grams

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